Most episodes of back pain improve with time, but not every patient follows the same path.
During Oryon’s recent spinal education event, Consultant Spinal Surgeon Mr Mo Akmal discussed how clinicians can recognise when back pain requires further investigation, the role of MRI in diagnosis and how modern spinal treatments are continuing to evolve.
Watch the full presentation by clicking here.
Understanding Different Types of Back Pain
One of the key messages from Mr Akmal’s presentation was that back pain is not a single condition.
Symptoms may arise from:
- Intervertebral discs
- Facet joints
- Muscles
- Nerve root compression
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Vertebral compression fractures
Correctly identifying the underlying pain generator is essential because treatment pathways differ significantly depending on the diagnosis.
When Is MRI Appropriate?
MRI provides detailed visualisation of the spine and surrounding soft tissues, allowing clinicians to assess structures that cannot be seen on standard X-rays.
Mr Akmal highlighted the value of MRI when patients present with persistent symptoms, neurological signs or suspected structural pathology that requires further investigation.
Recognising Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Lumbar spinal stenosis commonly presents with:
- Back pain
- Reduced walking distance
- Claudication
- Paraesthesia
- Leg weakness
- Symptoms that improve on forward flexion
MRI plays an important role in confirming the diagnosis and helping determine whether conservative management or surgery is appropriate.
Facet Joint Pain Can Mimic Other Conditions
Facet joint arthropathy often presents differently from disc-related pain.
Patients may experience:
- Morning stiffness
- Buttock pain
- Pain referred into the thighs
- Pain that worsens with spinal extension
- Improvement after mobilisation
Accurate imaging helps differentiate these causes and supports appropriate treatment planning.
Vertebral Compression Fractures Should Not Be Overlooked
Mr Akmal also discussed vertebral compression fractures, particularly in older adults.
These injuries can occur following relatively minor trauma and may lead to:
- Persistent pain
- Loss of height
- Progressive spinal deformity
- Reduced mobility
- Increased risk of future fractures
Early diagnosis with MRI and appropriate assessment can significantly influence management and patient outcomes.
Modern Spine Care Continues to Evolve
The presentation also explored developments including:
- Dynamic stabilisation
- Less invasive spinal procedures
- Improved MRI assessment
- New approaches to vertebral compression fractures
These advances continue to expand treatment options for appropriately selected patients.
Mr Mo Akmal’s presentation provides a detailed overview of common spinal conditions, MRI findings and evolving treatment approaches.
Watch the full recording here.
About Oryon Imaging
Oryon Imaging provides rapid access to MRI scans for patients and referring clinicians across London, with expert consultant radiologist reporting and appointments available seven days a week.
Watch further educational talks from the Spinal Symposium and webinars here here.