Contrary to recent large and influential studies on imaging and pain… There do seem to be signs on MRI that correlate with some pain experiences. No-matter how advanced the imaging procedure pain cannot be visualised, only inferred.

Body movement seems to be key to maintaining spinal health. Gradually over time the body degrades, and movement becomes less efficient. Unfortunately, even though we have advanced imaging the correlation between muscle joint and bone changes seen on imaging have failed to show any helpful (avoid or cure pain) signs.

Recently an MRI study (1) looked at how the changes at the end plate correlated with the pain experience of the people involved. You might never have heard of the end plate, but it is very important. You’ve likely heard of discs, and you may know there is a disc between every spinal bone called a vertebra.

The discs are kept healthy by up and down motion of the spine. The vertebral body is rich in blood supply, and it is this rich supply of nutrients that feed the discs. The discs have to effectively feed from the vertebrae. Feeding that is facilitated by movement. Each vertebrae have an endplate which connects it to the adjacent discs. Therefore, each disc has an endplate through which it feeds from the vertebral body when there is up and down motion of the vertebrae.

It may not come as a surprise that the very early signs of end plate signal change on MRI correlate with neck pain. Probably coinciding with reduced spinal motion and poor postural positioning and thus a reduced ability of spinal disc feeding.

‘Function well, Feel Well’

A healthy spine is a spine that functions well, has moving vertebrae and well-fed discs. The focus of a chiropractor is to facilitate vertebral motion in quantity and where regular appointments are scheduled and fulfilled the quality of vertebral movement can be supported.

Look after your spine, book your Consultation Appointment today.

References:

1. Jensen Rikke K et al (2023) The association between cervical degenerative MRI findings and self reported neck pain, disability and headache. Chiropractic and Manual Therpies Journal 31, Article number 45