ODI MCID (Oswestry Disability Index – Minimal Clinically Important Difference)

Definition: The Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) for the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) represents the smallest change in score that patients perceive as beneficial and which would justify a change in the patient's management.

Typical Values:

• The MCID for ODI generally ranges between 10 to 15 points (on a 0–100 scale), depending on the population and methodology.
• Some studies propose a relative change of 30% from baseline as an alternative threshold.

Clinical Use:

• Helps clinicians and researchers interpret the clinical significance of treatment effects in patients with low back pain or spinal conditions.
• Important for evaluating surgical outcomes, rehabilitation, or conservative management.

Example:

• A patient’s ODI score improves from 50 to 38 after surgery — a 12-point improvement, which may meet or exceed the MCID, suggesting a meaningful functional gain.

Notes:

• The MCID can vary based on baseline disability, condition treated, and patient expectations.
• Distinct from statistical significance — MCID focuses on patient-perceived benefit.