Study 1:
Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of degenerative spine conditions in asymptomatic individuals across different age groups. A systematic review of 33 articles, involving 3110 participants, was conducted, focusing on imaging findings through CT or MR imaging. The results showed that the prevalence of various degenerative conditions, such as disk degeneration, disk bulge, disk protrusion, and annular fissure, increased with age. For instance, disk degeneration increased from 37% in 20-year-olds to 96% in 80-year-olds. The study concludes that spine degeneration is commonly observed in asymptomatic individuals, with age playing a significant role. Many of these degenerative features are considered part of normal aging and may not necessarily be linked to pain, emphasizing the importance of interpreting imaging findings in the context of the patient's clinical condition.
We can conclude from this information that though spinal imaging often highlights a structural or bio-mechanical change within the body these changes are not directly correlated to discomfort levels. Indeed in the above study no subjects were experiencing pain and yet the imaging suggests intervention is indeed needed.
We do see more and more that discomfort levels related to the spine are closely correlated to a lack of movement and not a structural or bio-mechanical concern. It is movement that plays a larger role in our health and experience, more so than our structure.