questions on my x-ray report

I just got the results on my back x-rays, they read as follow, (abbreviated)
1) there is 1-2 mm of anterior subluxation of C3 on C4 in the neutral and flexed position.
2) in the neutral position there is slight smooth reversal of the usual cervical lordosis. Disc herniation cannot be excluded.  MRI is suggested as clinically indicated.
3) In the Thoracic spine disc herniation cannot be excluded, MRI is suggested.
4) In the Lumbar spine disc herniation cannot be excluded, there are also small osteophytes at L1-2 and there is mild L5-S1 facet joint arthrosis.

I was just hoping someone could just kind of sum this up for me in people terms before I go back to the doctor so I know what to expect.  Is this serious?  I have a lot of back pain.  I have always had back pain.  I injured it when I was a teenager and I have had chronic pain since.  If someone could give me an idea on possible treatment or what you think my doctor will say or do about this.  Thank you for anything you can offer.

[kittyluv1]

Welcome to the Back and Neck Community.  This forum exists to give people such as yourself an opportunity to discuss issues related to back and/or neck problems which are causing pain or other symptoms making it difficult to continue their usual activities. Please feel free to post any questions that may arise before or after your doctor appts and the members of the community will try and assist you as much as possible.

It looks like the above x-rays were done of your cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine.  They are inconclusive at this point and an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is being suggested to determine if there is any nerve involvement.  If the spinal nerves are being "pinched" by a disc it can cause pain as well as numbness and tingling in the area of the body the nerve supplies.  These disc herniations, if they exist, can be treated in several different ways and is dependent on the nature and extent of the individual's symptoms and the extent to which the nerve is compromised.
When you see the doctor, give him your most difficult symptoms (neck, chest or low back), any numbness/tingling that may exist and any changes in your activity level caused by the symptoms.  He will determine which area to do the MRI (perhaps all three) and treatment will depend on the clinical findings.
Post again after having the MRI done and let us know the results.
Best wishes ----