No association between MRI changes in the lumbar spine and intensity of pain, quality of life, depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with low back pain.

INTRODUCTION

The association between changes in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical symptoms in patients with low back pain (LBP) is unclear.

AIM

To evaluate correlations between combined MRI findings of the lumbar spine (LS) and pain intensity, depressive and anxiety symptoms and quality of life in patients with LBP.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

200 subjects (93 men and 107 women; mean age 51.42 ± 13.21 years) with LBP referred for MRI were enrolled in the study. All patients completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Quality of Life Scales (EQ-5D, EQ-VAS) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). MRI scans were assessed according to a scoring system prepared by the authors, and the total MRI score was calculated.

RESULTS

The mean total MRI score was 11.59 ± 6.73 points (range 0-50 points) and was higher in men than in women (p = 0.015). A correlation was observed between total MRI score and age (p < 0.001) and between total MRI score and BMI (p = 0.005). An association was found between total MRI score and EQ-5D (p = 0.012) and HADS-D results (p = 0.003). VAS and HADS-A results did not correlate with MRI score. When multivariate analysis was done, the total MRI score was only significantly related to age and BMI, and association between the total MRI score and EQ-5D or HADS-D results was not confirmed. Decreased quality of life was associated with increased intensity of pain and depressive and anxiety symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined MRI changes in LS do not correlate with pain intensity, depressive and anxiety syndromes or quality of life in patients with LBP.