Researchers at Rush University have found a possible link between gut health and spine problems, specifically a condition called lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis.
This condition occurs when one vertebra slips over another due to degeneration of the intervertebral disk or facet joint, leading to pain, disability, and sometimes the need for surgery.
While many factors like lifestyle, obesity, and genetics are known to contribute to spine issues, this study explored whether the gut microbiome—the collection of bacteria and microbes in the gut—might also play a role.
Led by Dr. Dino Samartzis, a professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Rush, the study was published in JOR Spine.
The researchers wanted to know if there were differences in the gut microbiomes of people with and without lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis, after accounting for other known risk factors like age, weight, diet, and pain levels.
The team collected samples of blood, stool, saliva, and disk tissue from people who underwent surgery.
The study included 33 participants over the age of 50, 21 of whom had spondylolisthesis and 12 who did not.
When comparing the two groups, they found no differences in terms of their age, sex, weight, or other factors. However, they did find significant differences in the gut bacteria.
People with spondylolisthesis had higher levels of certain pro-inflammatory gut bacteria. These specific bacteria were linked to the spine condition, with some of them showing a threefold increase in those with spondylolisthesis compared to those without.
This discovery opens up new possibilities for understanding spine health. The researchers suggest that the gut microbiome may contribute to spine degeneration by promoting inflammation or altering metabolism. “A healthy gut may translate into a healthy and pain-free spine,” said Samartzis.
These findings could lead to new treatments for back pain that focus on improving gut health. Personalized approaches to spine care, including gut-focused therapies, may help improve outcomes for patients with degenerative spine conditions.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of gut health in maintaining overall well-being, including spine health. This research could pave the way for new treatment options and lifestyle changes that target the gut microbiome to reduce back pain and improve spinal health.
Source: Rush University.
