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Tiρ values on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may detect early degeneration in the intervertebral disc of asymptomatic young male weightlifters, suggests a new study. 

Researchers assessed MRIs in 26 asymptomatic young male weightlifters and an age- and sex-matched sedentary control group. Neither of the considered groups had lower back pain or any spinal symptoms. 

Researchers used Pfirrmann scale to assess degenerative grade. They did not observe any significant difference in Pfirrmann degenerative grades between the groups. 

However, in the lumbar spine of weightlifters, T1ρ values were significantly lower compared with controls (P < 0.05). With degenerative grade, T1ρ values decreased linearly, the press release added.

"T1ρ can be potentially used as a valid clinical tool to identify early changes in intervertebral disc on the verge of new emerging intervertebral discs regenerative strategies and treatments," the authors wrote in the study.

The study was published in the journal Spine.