Hi, I’m Noel. My MRI said “Modic type 1” and nobody explained it. So I learned, and drew it.
A Type 1 Modic change is inflammation in the bone next to a spinal disc, seen on MRI. It’s linked to some chronic low back pain, but it isn’t always the cause.
A scan shows the change. It can’t prove the pain.
Some people with exactly this on their MRI have no back pain at all.
Four routes, each aimed at something different.
Least to most invasive, not best to worst.
Compare all four, with the evidence
Does it change over time?
Over months to years, Type 1 can stay the same, fade, or settle into Type 2. The type doesn’t predict your course.
Where I am now
- Feb 2024 · MRI, and the words Modic type 1.
- Oct 2025 · First pain-free week of the year.
- Now · Deciding on nerve ablation. I’ll write what happens, good or bad.
Urgent: back pain with groin numbness, bladder or bowel changes, fever or leg weakness needs care today.
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