From the Research
Yes, there is a significant association between multifidus muscle atrophy and disc injury, as evidenced by the most recent study in 2022 1. The multifidus muscles, which are deep paraspinal muscles running along the spine, often show atrophy following disc injuries such as herniation or degeneration. This relationship appears to be bidirectional - disc injuries can lead to multifidus atrophy through mechanisms like reflex inhibition and denervation, while pre-existing multifidus weakness may predispose individuals to disc injuries by reducing spinal stability. Some key points to consider include:
- The atrophy typically occurs rapidly after injury, often within days, and is most pronounced at the spinal level of the disc injury.
- This muscle wasting is frequently localized to the injured side and specific spinal segment rather than being generalized.
- Clinically, this association is important because multifidus atrophy can persist even after pain resolution, potentially contributing to recurrent back problems if not addressed.
- Rehabilitation programs focusing on specific multifidus reactivation and strengthening are often recommended following disc injuries to restore proper spinal stabilization and potentially reduce the risk of future injuries.
- Imaging studies like MRI can detect both the disc pathology and associated muscle changes, making them valuable diagnostic tools in comprehensive spine assessment, as supported by studies such as 2 and 3. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2022 1, provides strong evidence for this association, highlighting the need for clinicians to consider multifidus muscle atrophy in the diagnosis and treatment of disc injuries. Additionally, other studies, such as those published in 2021 2 and 2024 3, also support this association, further emphasizing the importance of considering multifidus muscle atrophy in the context of disc injuries. Overall, the evidence suggests that multifidus muscle atrophy is a significant concern in the context of disc injuries, and clinicians should prioritize its diagnosis and treatment to improve patient outcomes.