Intradiscal glucocorticoids injection in chronic low back pain with active discopathy: A randomized controlled study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Pain Management
• Radiology

Background:

• The efficacy of corticosteroid injections for low back pain with active discopathy remains uncertain.
• Active discopathy is characterized by Modic 1 changes on MRI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical effectiveness of intradiscal glucocorticoids versus lidocaine for low back pain in patients with active discopathy.
• To evaluate pain reduction and functional improvement following intradiscal injections.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled study involving 50 patients with lumbar active discopathy.
• Patients received either intradiscal glucocorticoids (prednisolone acetate) or lidocaine.
• Outcomes included pain intensity (VAS), Dallas Pain Questionnaire, and Oswestry Disability Index at various follow-up points.

Main Results:

• Pain intensity significantly decreased at 1 month in the glucocorticoid group compared to the lidocaine group.
• The significant pain reduction was not sustained at 3 and 6 months.
• Improved daily activities were noted in the glucocorticoid group at 1 and 3 months, with no difference in analgesic use or work status.

Conclusions:

• Intradiscal prednisolone acetate may provide short-term pain relief for low back pain associated with active discopathy.
• The benefits of prednisolone acetate injections for low back pain are limited to one month post-injection.
• Further research is needed to explore long-term efficacy and alternative treatments for active discopathy.