A Clinico–radiological Correlation of Patients with Lumbar Spinal Instability

Background: A larger than normal range of motion in the spinal segment defines lumbar segmental instability, which is a sort of aberrant motion to physiologic stressors. Clinical complaints and signs such as low back ache or radiculopathy, as well as Kotilainen and Valtonen's three criteria for instability (painful catch, instability catch, and apprehension) will be correlated with an MRI investigation to determine lumbar spinal instability. Disc degeneration and facet degeneration along with soft tissues supporting spinal motion segment are important provocative factors for lumbar spine instability. The existence of lumbar instability must be identified since it can alter the treatment approach and patient prognosis.

Objective: To evaluate clinical signs and symptoms in patients with Lumbar spinal instability, as well as to investigate radiological signs using X-rays and an MRI scan.

Methods and Materials: In this study in which patients with history suggestive of Lumbar spinal instability will be evaluated clinically and radiologically. Patients of age group of 25-75 years will be included in this study. Clinical tests, static and dynamic Xrays and MRI scan will be studied.

Expected Outcomes: By this study we can expect clinico–radiological co relation in patient with low back ache in lumbar spinal instability. Outcome data will be assessed on Clinico-radiological Criteria of Lumbar Instability and clinic-radiological correlation will be done.