Correlation of Paraspinal Atrophy and Denervation in Back Pain and Spinal Stenosis Relative to Asymptomatic Controls

Abstract

The mechanisms behind the symptoms of spinal stenosis are poorly understood. Although MRI is commonly used to establish the extent of canal narrowing, the severity of stenosis and symptoms often do not relate. Electromyography is used to assist in the diagnosis of spinal stenosis and the elimination of other conditions in the differential diagnoses. Paraspinal atrophy and paraspinal denervation do occur in subjects with spinal stenosis. Atrophy is also common in patients with non-radiating back pain, and studies have shown that some level of background paraspinal denervation occurs in asymptomatic subjects, perhaps increasing with age.