Modic I changes size increase from supine to standing MRI correlates with increase in pain intensity in standing position: uncovering the “biomechanical stress” and “active discopathy” theories in low back pain

• DOI: 10.1007/s00586-019-05974-7
• Publication Date: 2019-04-15T04:08:37Z
• Authors: Alessandra Splend...; Federico Bruno; Claudia Marsecano; Francesco Arrigoni; Ernesto Di Cesare; Antonio Barile; Carlo Masciocchi
• Keywords: Modic changes; Supine position; Intervertebral Disc; Disc protrusion; Back Pain; Sitting

To evaluate the relationship between degenerative disc, endplate Modic changes (MC) type I, and pain during upright weight-bearing MRI scan of lumbar spine in a cohort patients with non-specific low back pain. We evaluated 38 evidence I vertebral changes. The were standard position using dedicated MR unit. extent MC intervertebral disc height at involved level, degree degeneration same compared. Pain was assessed through VAS questionnaire. In position, area increased 26 (68.4%, p ≤ 0.001) compared to supine position. reduction found 35 (92.1%). Correlation analysis showed moderate negative correlation (ρ = − 0.45) increase changes, weak positive 0.12) Pfirrmann grade At clinical evaluation, 30 (78.9%) reported worsening standing Increase values on correlated significantly 0.34) an Our results modifications under loading, extension Weight-bearing scans represent valuable complement sequences since they provide radiologist additional diagnostic information about These slides can be retrieved from Electronic Supplementary Material.