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Barbe MF, Chen FL, Loomis RH, Harris MY, Kim BM, Xie K, Hilliard BA, McGonagle ER, Bailey TD, Gares RP, Van Der Bas M, Kalicharan BA, Holt-Bright L, Stone LS, Hodges PW, Klyne DM. Characterization of pain-related behaviors in a rat model of acute-to-chronic low back pain: single vs. multi-level disc injury. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2024; 5:1394017. [PMID: 38770243 PMCID: PMC11102983 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2024.1394017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Low back pain is the most common type of chronic pain. We examined pain-related behaviors across 18 weeks in rats that received injury to one or two lumbar intervertebral discs (IVD) to determine if multi-level disc injuries enhance/prolong pain. Methods Twenty-three Sprague-Dawley adult female rats were used: 8 received disc puncture (DP) of one lumbar IVD (L5/6, DP-1); 8 received DP of two lumbar IVDs (L4/5 & L5/6, DP-2); 8 underwent sham surgery. Results DP-2 rats showed local (low back) sensitivity to pressure at 6- and 12-weeks post-injury, and remote sensitivity to pressure (upper thighs) at 12- and 18-weeks and touch (hind paws) at 6, 12 and 18-weeks. DP-1 rats showed local and remote pressure sensitivity at 12-weeks only (and no tactile sensitivity), relative to Sham DP rats. Both DP groups showed reduced distance traveled during gait testing over multiple weeks, compared to pre-injury; only DP-2 rats showed reduced distance relative to Sham DP rats at 12-weeks. DP-2 rats displayed reduced positive interactions with a novel adult female rat at 3-weeks and hesitation and freezing during gait assays from 6-weeks onwards. At study end (18-weeks), radiological and histological analyses revealed reduced disc height and degeneration of punctured IVDs. Serum BDNF and TNFα levels were higher at 18-weeks in DP-2 rats, relative to Sham DP rats, and levels correlated positively with remote sensitivity in hind paws (tactile) and thighs (pressure). Discussion Thus, multi-level disc injuries resulted in earlier, prolonged and greater discomfort locally and remotely, than single-level disc injury. BDNF and TNFα may have contributing roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary F. Barbe
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Frank Liu Chen
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Regina H. Loomis
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michele Y. Harris
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Brandon M. Kim
- Medical Doctor Program, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kevin Xie
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Brendan A. Hilliard
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Elizabeth R. McGonagle
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Taylor D. Bailey
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ryan P. Gares
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Megan Van Der Bas
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Betsy A. Kalicharan
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lewis Holt-Bright
- Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Laura S. Stone
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Paul W. Hodges
- NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David M. Klyne
- NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Kosić M, Malnar D, Lekić A. A Study of 60 Patients with Low Back Pain to Compare Outcomes Following Magnetotherapy, Ultrasound, Laser, and Electrotherapy with and without Lumbosacral Kinesiotherapy. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e943732. [PMID: 38556775 PMCID: PMC10996430 DOI: 10.12659/msm.943732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study of 60 patients with low back pain (LBP) aimed to compare outcomes following magnetotherapy, ultrasound therapy, laser therapy, and electrotherapy, with and without lumbosacral kinesiotherapy, and used the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (OLBPDQ). This was a randomized actively controlled intervention trial of adding kinesiotherapy to a standard physiotherapy for LBP. MATERIAL AND METHODS The research included 60 participants with a diagnosis of chronic non-specific lumbar pain syndrome (CNSLPS) (mean±SD age 58.3±15.4 years, 37 women) LBP randomly assigned (1: 1) to 2 treatment groups. In Group 1, 30 patients were treated with magnetotherapy, ultrasound therapy, laser therapy, and electrotherapy. In Group 2, 30 patients received the same treatments as in Group 1, and also performed kinesiotherapy exercises affecting the lumbosacral spine and adjacent muscles. At baseline and at the end of the study, all participants completed the RMDQ and the OLBPDQ. RESULTS Both groups had significant improvement after therapy. Repeated-measures ANOVA indicated that at the end of treatment there was significantly greater progress and symptom reduction (P<0.001) in Group 2. Patients in Group 2 had a pain reduction of 52.5%, while Group 1 had 25.4% pain reduction (P=0.009). CONCLUSIONS For treatment of disability caused by CNSLPS, physical therapy combined with kinesiotherapy should be a treatment of choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Kosić
- Department of Physical Therapy, Health Institution Kosić, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Daniela Malnar
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Andrica Lekić
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
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Abel F, Altorfer FCS, Rohatgi V, Gibbs W, Chazen JL. Imaging of Discogenic and Vertebrogenic Pain. Radiol Clin North Am 2024; 62:217-228. [PMID: 38272616 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcl.2023.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Chronic low back pain is a major source of pain and disability globally involving multifactorial causes. Historically, intervertebral disc degeneration and disruption have been associated as primary back pain triggers of the anterior column, termed "discogenic pain." Recently, the vertebral endplates have been identified as another possible pain trigger of the anterior column. This "endplate-driven" model, defined "vertebrogenic pain," is often interconnected with disc degeneration. Diagnosis of vertebrogenic and discogenic pain relies on imaging techniques that isolate pain generators and exclude comorbid conditions. Traditional methods, like radiographs and discography, are augmented by more sensitive methods, including SPECT, CT, and MRI. Morphologic MRI is pivotal in revealing indicators of vertebrogenic (eg, Modic endplate changes) and discogenic pain (eg, disc degeneration and annular fissures). More advanced methods, like ultra-short-echo time imaging, and quantitative MRI further amplify MRI's accuracy in the detection of painful endplate and disc pathology. This review explores the pathophysiology of vertebrogenic and discogenic pain as well as the impact of different imaging modalities in the diagnosis of low back pain. We hope this information can help identify patients who may benefit from personalized clinical treatment and image-guided therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Abel
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, NY 10021, USA
| | - Franziska C S Altorfer
- Department of Spine Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, NY 10021, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Forchstrasse 340, Zurich 8008, Switzerland
| | - Varun Rohatgi
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 68th Street, NY 10065, USA
| | - Wende Gibbs
- Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, 350 West Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Joseph Levi Chazen
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, NY 10021, USA.
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4
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Wirth B, Schweinhardt P. Personalized assessment and management of non-specific low back pain. Eur J Pain 2024; 28:181-198. [PMID: 37874300 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.2190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Low back pain (LBP), and in particular non-specific low back pain (NSLBP), which accounts for approximately 90% of LBP, is the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. In clinical trials, LBP is often poorly categorized into 'specific' versus 'non-specific' and 'acute' versus 'chronic' pain. However, a better understanding of the underlying pain mechanisms might improve study results and reduce the number of NSLBP patients. DATABASES AND DATA TREATMENT Narrative review. RESULTS NSLBP is a multi-dimensional, biopsychosocial condition that requires all contributing dimensions to be assessed and prioritized. Thereby, the assessment of the contribution of nociceptive, neuropathic and nociplastic pain mechanisms forms the basis for personalized management. In addition, psychosocial (e.g. anxiety, catastrophizing) and contextual factors (e.g. work situation) as well as comorbidities need to be assessed and individually weighted. Personalized treatment of NSLBP further requires individually choosing treatment modalities, for example, exercising, patient education, cognitive-behavioural advice, pharmacotherapy, as well as tailoring treatment within these modalities, for example, the delivery of tailored psychological interventions or exercise programs. As the main pain mechanism and psychosocial factors may vary over time, re-assessment is necessary and treatment success should ideally be assessed quantitatively and qualitatively. CONCLUSIONS The identification of the main contributing pain mechanism and the integration of the patients' view on their condition, including beliefs, preferences, concerns and expectations, are key in the personalized clinical management of NSLBP. In research, particular importance should be placed on accurate characterization of patients and on including outcomes relevant to the individual patient. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Here, a comprehensive review of the challenges associated with the diagnostic label 'non-specific low back pain' is given. It outlines what is lacking in current treatment guidelines and it is summarized what is currently known with respect to individual phenotyping. It becomes clear that more research on clinically meaningful subgroups is needed to best tailor treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Wirth
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Integrative Spinal Research Group, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Petra Schweinhardt
- Department of Chiropractic Medicine, Integrative Spinal Research Group, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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McCormick ZL, Curtis T, Cooper A, Wheatley M, Smuck M. Low back pain-related healthcare utilization following intraosseous basivertebral nerve radiofrequency ablation: a pooled analysis from three prospective clinical trials. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2024; 25:20-32. [PMID: 37643639 PMCID: PMC10765157 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effectiveness and safety of intraosseous basivertebral nerve ablation (BVNA) for treating vertebrogenic pain is established, but low back pain-related healthcare utilization (LBPr-HU) following BVNA continues to be defined. METHODS LBPr-HU data were pooled from 3 prospective studies. LBPr-HU categories of interest included non-invasive conservative care, opioid utilization, lumbosacral spinal injection (LSI), lumbosacral radiofrequency ablation (LRFA), and lumbosacral spinal surgery. Pre- and post-BVNA LBPr-HU were compared at both 1- and 5-years using McNemar's test for proportions and paired t-tests for means. RESULTS Two hundred forty-seven patients received BVNA and had 1-year follow-up; 205 had long-term follow-up (mean of 5.3 ± 1.33 years). Twenty-seven percent fewer participants initiated conservative care in the year post-BVNA compared to the year preceding BVNA (P < .001; 95% CI 19.8-34.5). Of 77/247 participants taking opioids at baseline, 40.3% and 61.7% fewer were taking them at one-year and 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA, respectively (P < .001). Of participants receiving LSIs in the year preceding BVNA, 81.2% fewer received LSI(s) in the year post-BVNA (P < .001; 95% CI 70.7-90.7); a 76.4% reduction in LSIs was maintained through a mean of 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA. LRFA rates were 1.6% at 1-year post-BVNA and 8.3% at 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA. Lumbar fusion surgery was 0.8% at 1-year post-BVNA and 6.5% at 5.3 ± 1.33 years post-BVNA. CONCLUSIONS In this aggregate analysis of patients with vertebrogenic pain, utilization of conservative care, opioids, LSIs, and LRFA were substantially reduced through 5 years post-BVNA compared to baseline. Lumbar fusion rates were less than half the published value at 5 years in similar populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L McCormick
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Timothy Curtis
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Amanda Cooper
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Margo Wheatley
- Health Economist, Technomics Research, LLC, Medina, MN 55356, United States
| | - Matthew Smuck
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Redwood City, CA 94063, United States
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Miller S, Caragea M, Carson D, McFarland MM, Teramoto M, Cushman DM, Cooper AN, Burnham T, McCormick ZL, Conger A. The effectiveness of intradiscal corticosteroid injection for the treatment of chronic discovertebral low back pain: a systematic review. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2024; 25:33-46. [PMID: 37740319 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine the effectiveness of intradiscal corticosteroid injection (IDCI) for the treatment of discovertebral low back pain. DESIGN Systematic review. POPULATION Adults with chronic low back pain attributed to disc or vertebral end plate pain, as evidenced by positive provocation discography or Modic 1 or 2 changes on magnetic resonance imaging. INTERVENTION Fluoroscopically guided or computed tomography-guided IDCI. COMPARISON Sham/placebo procedure including intradiscal saline, anesthetic, discography alone, or other active treatment. OUTCOMES Reduction in chronic low back pain reported on a visual analog scale or numeric rating scale and reduction in disability reported by a validated scale such as the Oswestry Disability Index. METHODS Four reviewers independently assessed articles published before January 31, 2023, in Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL. The quality of evidence was evaluated with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. The risk of bias in randomized trials was evaluated with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (version 2). RESULTS Of the 7806 unique records screened, 6 randomized controlled trials featuring 603 total participants ultimately met the inclusion criteria. In multiple randomized controlled trials, IDCI was found to reduce pain and disability for 1-6 months in those with Modic 1 and 2 changes but not in those selected by provocation discography. CONCLUSION According to GRADE, there is low-quality evidence that IDCI reduces pain and disability for up to 6 months in individuals with chronic discovertebral low back pain as evidenced by Modic 1 and 2 changes but not in individuals selected by provocation discography. STUDY REGISTRATION PROSPERO (CRD42021287421).
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Miller
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Marc Caragea
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Dan Carson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Mary M McFarland
- Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, United States
| | - Masaru Teramoto
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Daniel M Cushman
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Amanda N Cooper
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Taylor Burnham
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Zachary L McCormick
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
| | - Aaron Conger
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
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Mengis T, Herger N, Heggli I, Devan J, Spirig JM, Laux CJ, Brunner F, Farshad M, Distler O, Dudli S. Bone marrow stromal cells in Modic type 1 changes promote neurite outgrowth. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1286280. [PMID: 37965581 PMCID: PMC10641389 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1286280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The pain in patients with Modic type 1 changes (MC1) is often due to vertebral body endplate pain, which is linked to abnormal neurite outgrowth in the vertebral body and adjacent endplate. The aim of this study was to understand the role of MC1 bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) in neurite outgrowth. BMSCs can produce neurotrophic factors, which have been shown to be pro-fibrotic in MC1, and expand in the perivascular space where sensory vertebral nerves are located. The study involved the exploration of the BMSC transcriptome in MC1, co-culture of MC1 BMSCs with the neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y, analysis of supernatant cytokines, and analysis of gene expression changes in co-cultured SH-SY5Y. Transcriptomic analysis revealed upregulated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling-related pathways. Co-cultures of MC1 BMSCs with SH-SY5Y cells resulted in increased neurite sprouting compared to co-cultures with control BMSCs. The concentration of BDNF and other cytokines supporting neuron growth was increased in MC1 vs. control BMSC co-culture supernatants. Taken together, these findings show that MC1 BMSCs provide strong pro-neurotrophic cues to nearby neurons and could be a relevant disease-modifying treatment target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Mengis
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Nick Herger
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Irina Heggli
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jan Devan
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - José Miguel Spirig
- Department of Orthopedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph J. Laux
- Department of Orthopedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Florian Brunner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Mazda Farshad
- Department of Orthopedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Distler
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Dudli
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
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Remotti E, Nduaguba C, Woolley PA, Ricciardelli R, Phung A, Kim R, Urits I, Kaye AD, Hasoon J, Simopoulos T, Yazdi C, Robinson CL. Review: Discogenic Back Pain: Update on Treatment. Orthop Rev (Pavia) 2023; 15:84649. [PMID: 37641793 PMCID: PMC10460631 DOI: 10.52965/001c.84649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose of Review Lower back pain (LBP) has a lifetime prevalence of 80% in the United States population. Discogenic back pain (DBP), a subcategory of LBP, occurs as a result of the interverbal disc degeneration without disc herniation. Diagnosis relies on history, physical exam, and imaging such as MRI, provocative discography, or CT discography. Recent Findings Treatment of DBP involves a multifaceted approach with an emphasis on conservative measures including behavioral modification, pharmacologic management, and other non-pharmacologic interventions with invasive therapy reserved for select patients. Due to the paucity of data on the treatment of DBP, treatment also relies on data derived from treatment of chronic LBP (CLBP). Summary Despite the scarcity of data for the treatment of DBP, treatments do exist with varying efficacy for DBP. Novel techniques such as the use of biologics may provide another avenue for treatment though further studies are needed to better evaluate the most efficacious regimen for both novel and existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Remotti
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Chinoso Nduaguba
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Parker A Woolley
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ryan Ricciardelli
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Anh Phung
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Rosa Kim
- Georgetown University Hospital, Department of General Surgery, Medstar, Washington, DC
| | | | - Alan David Kaye
- Louisiana State University Shreveport, Department of Anesthesiology, Shreveport, LA
| | - Jamal Hasoon
- UTHealth McGovern Medical School, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Thomas Simopoulos
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Cyrus Yazdi
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Christopher L Robinson
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Waldenberg C, Brisby H, Hebelka H, Lagerstrand KM. Associations between Vertebral Localized Contrast Changes and Adjacent Annular Fissures in Patients with Low Back Pain: A Radiomics Approach. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4891. [PMID: 37568293 PMCID: PMC10420134 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12154891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is multifactorial and associated with various spinal tissue changes, including intervertebral disc fissures, vertebral pathology, and damaged endplates. However, current radiological markers lack specificity and individualized diagnostic capability, and the interactions between the various markers are not fully clear. Radiomics, a data-driven analysis of radiological images, offers a promising approach to improve evaluation and deepen the understanding of spinal changes related to LBP. This study investigated possible associations between vertebral changes and annular fissures using radiomics. A dataset of 61 LBP patients who underwent conventional magnetic resonance imaging followed by discography was analyzed. Radiomics features were extracted from segmented vertebrae and carefully reduced to identify the most relevant features associated with annular fissures. The results revealed three important texture features that display concentrated high-intensity gray levels, extensive regions with elevated gray levels, and localized areas with reduced gray levels within the vertebrae. These features highlight patterns within vertebrae that conventional classification systems cannot reflect on distinguishing between vertebrae adjacent to an intervertebral disc with or without an annular fissure. As such, the present study reveals associations that contribute to the understanding of pathophysiology and may provide improved diagnostics of LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Waldenberg
- Department of Medical Radiation Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (H.B.); (H.H.)
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Helena Brisby
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (H.B.); (H.H.)
- Department of Orthopaedics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hanna Hebelka
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (H.B.); (H.H.)
- Department of Radiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Magdalena Lagerstrand
- Department of Medical Radiation Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden;
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden; (H.B.); (H.H.)
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
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10
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Czaplewski LG, Rimmer O, McHale D, Laslett M. Modic changes as seen on MRI are associated with nonspecific chronic lower back pain and disability. J Orthop Surg Res 2023; 18:351. [PMID: 37170132 PMCID: PMC10176889 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-03839-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimating the contribution of endplate oedema known as Modic changes to lower back pain (LBP) has been the subject of multiple observational studies and reviews, some of which conclude that the evidence for an association of Modic change with LBP is uncertain while others demonstrate a clear link. The clinical trials demonstrating the benefit of basivertebral nerve ablation, a therapeutic intervention, in a tightly defined homogenous patient group with chronic LBP and Modic changes type 1 or type 2, provides further evidence for the contribution of Modic changes to LBP and shows that in these subjects, nerve ablation substantially reduces pain and disability. These interventional studies provide direct evidence that Modic changes can be associated with lower back pain and disability. This review set out to explore why the literature to date has been conflicting. METHODS A narrative, forensic, non-systematic literature review of selected articles to investigate why the published literature investigating the association between Modic imaging changes and chronic low back pain is inconsistent. RESULTS This review found that previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses included both heterogeneous study designs and diverse patient syndromes resulting in an inconsistent association between Modic changes and nonspecific chronic lower back pain. Re-analysis of literature data focussing on more homogenous patient populations provides clearer evidence that Modic changes are associated with nonspecific chronic lower back pain and that type 1 Modic changes are more painful than type 2. CONCLUSIONS Studies using tightly defined homogenous patient groups may provide the best test for association between MRI-findings and pain and disability. Clinical benefit of basivertebral nerve ablation observed in randomised controlled trials further supports the association between type 1 and type 2 Modic changes with pain and disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lloyd G Czaplewski
- Persica Pharmaceuticals Ltd, 7 Denne Hill Business Centre, Womenswold, Canterbury, Kent, CT4 6HD, UK.
| | - Otis Rimmer
- Veramed Ltd, 5th Floor Regal House, 70 London Road, Twickenham, TW1 3QS, UK
| | | | - Mark Laslett
- Mark Laslett, Physiotherapy Specialist, The Sports Clinic, 156 Bealey Ave., Christchurch, 8014, New Zealand
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Velnar T, Gradisnik L. Endplate role in the degenerative disc disease: A brief review. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:17-29. [PMID: 36687189 PMCID: PMC9846967 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i1.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The degenerative disease of the intervertebral disc is nowadays an important health problem, which has still not been understood and solved adequately. The vertebral endplate is regarded as one of the vital elements in the structure of the intervertebral disc. Its constituent cells, the chondrocytes in the endplate, may also be involved in the process of the intervertebral disc degeneration and their role is central both under physiological and pathological conditions. They main functions include a role in homeostasis of the extracellular environment of the intervertebral disc, metabolic support and nutrition of the discal nucleus and annulus beneath and the preservation of the extracellular matrix. Therefore, it is understandable that the cells in the endplate have been in the centre of research from several viewpoints, such as development, degeneration and growth, reparation and remodelling, as well as treatment strategies. In this article, we briefly review the importance of vertebral endplate, which are often overlooked, in the intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaz Velnar
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
- Alma Mater Europaea Maribor, Maribor 2000, Slovenia
| | - Lidija Gradisnik
- Alma Mater Europaea Maribor, Maribor 2000, Slovenia
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Maribor, University of Maribor, Maribor 2000, Slovenia
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