Evaluation of common lumbar vertebral pathologies using MRI in patients with chronic lower back pain in population of Dera Ismail Khan

Abstract

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The lower back, also known as the lumbar spine, consists of five different lumbar vertebrae and intervertebral discs, placed in the lowest region of the spinal column. The pain that occurs in the region between lower ribs and hips is called lower back pain which is the most frequent among young and middle-aged adults. The major cause of lower back pain is degenerative disc disease around the globe.

AIM: The aim of this research work is to evaluate common lumbar vertebral pathologies on MRI in patients with chronic lower back pain in Dera Ismail Khan and determine their prevalence and pattern. 

METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the population of Dera Ismail Khan by collecting data through research questionnaires and MRI reports. The collected data was analyzed on SPSS having version 2025. The convenient sampling technique was used for selection of participants.

RESULTS: A total number of 377 patients with chronic lower back pain were included in the study. The majority of patients belonged to the economically active age groups, with the highest proportion observed in the age rang 18–30 years (30.2%) and followed by 31–40 years (29.7%), 41–50 years (18.6%). Compared to men, women were more often impacted (54.1% vs. 45.9%). The highest distribution of chronic lower back pain was by in tehsil Kulachi (29%), with (22%) have in tehsil Paharpur (22.30%), in tehsil Dera ismail khan with (20.4%), Paroa (20.2%). Most patients were taller >5.8 feet. 93.9% of cases the pain persisted for more than three months. The primary cause (69.5%) was disc bulging with spinal stenosis whereas the most common associated disease (87.0%) was musculoskeletal issues.

Conclusion: Young and early middle aged adults frequently have chronic lower back pain especially women. The most common lumbar disease identified by MRI was disc bulging with spinal stenosis which is frequently linked to functional restriction and radiating discomfort. Accurate diagnosis and better patient care depend on early MRI examination.

KEYWORDS: Radiating pain, Degenerative disc disease, Lumbar spine, Disc bulging, Spinal Stenosis, Magnetic resonance imaging, chronic lower back pain.