Cervical Spine

I posted in the undiagnosed forums recently about a MS/TIA like episode I had.  It seems to have been correlated to my having strep or a virus, and the most serious symptoms resolved when I took antibiotics (?).

In any event, I had an MRI at that time to rule out MS, which it did.  That was the "purpose" of the MRI and what everyone was looking for--at it was in the context of a trip to the ER (because the neurologists office couldn't fit me in to their office schedule, so they sent me there).

However, after requesting a copy of the report, I see that it also notes, with regard to an MRI with and without contrast of my cervical spine:

"Minimal degenerative change noted at C4/C5 with a small disc/ossify complex present.  The effective AP canal diameter is 11 mm."  

The conclusion was "no acute abnormality of the cervical spine."

Can I safely disregard whatever that means,  since no one mentioned it to me?  I am a 29 year old female. I've had neck pain in the past, some lower back pain, but not enough that it sent me to the doctor.  My neck pops a lot.  My main problems have been fatigue/tingling and burning in feet/weakness (not pain).

Thank you very much.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The cervical spine shows minimal degenerative change (or arthritis).  There is no compression of the canal can may lead to the neurological symptoms you are experiencing.  I agree with the interpretation that there is no significant acute abnormality.

If the neck is an issue, physical therapy can be considered to strengthen the ligaments in the neck.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_