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Spinal motion in lumbar degenerative disc disease
A H McGregor1, H R Cattermole, S P Hughes
1Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Imperial College School of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital Campus, London, UK.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|December 16, 1998
Summary
Dynamic lumbar spine movement in degenerative disc disease showed no correlation with radiographic grading. Age and symptom severity, not grading, influenced movement, suggesting current grading systems have limited application.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Biomechanical Engineering
Background:
- Degenerative lumbar disc disease (DLDD) is a common condition affecting spinal health.
- Radiographic grading systems aim to quantify DLDD severity but their clinical utility is debated.
- Understanding the relationship between spinal biomechanics and radiographic findings is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between dynamic lumbar spine movement and radiographic grading of DLDD.
- To assess the influence of demographic and symptomatic factors on spinal movement in DLDD patients.
- To evaluate the clinical applicability of current radiographic grading systems for DLDD.
Main Methods:
- 57 patients with DLDD underwent dynamic lumbar spine movement assessment.
- Patients completed questionnaires on pain and symptoms.
- Radiographs were graded using Kellgren and Lawrence and Lane et al. criteria.
- Disc space height and vertebral height ratios were measured.
Main Results:
- No significant relationship was found between dynamic spinal movement and radiographic DLDD grading.
- Spinal movement was significantly influenced by age (p < 0.01), walking distance, symptom severity, medication use, and pain frequency.
- Radiographic grading systems showed limited correlation with objective movement characteristics.
Conclusions:
- Current radiographic grading systems for DLDD have limited application in reflecting dynamic spinal function.
- Age and symptom burden are more significant factors influencing spinal movement than radiographic severity alone.
- Further research may be needed to develop more clinically relevant assessment tools for DLDD.