Prevalence of modic changes in patients with low back pain and association with degenerative spinal findings: a retrospective MRI study

Our findings suggest that Modic changes, particularly Type 2, are common radiological findings in lumbar spine imaging, most frequently occurring at L4/L5 and L5/S1 levels. Although initial associations with disc degeneration and herniation were observed, these did not remain significant after correction for multiple comparisons. Nonetheless, the distribution and age-related patterns of Modic changes suggest their potential relevance in degenerative spinal conditions. Future longitudinal studies should investigate the clinical implications and progression of Modic changes to inform more targeted management strategies for degenerative spinal disorders.