Help understanding MRI results

[15371]

Hi,

I just got the results of an MRI I had done due to almost two years of low back pain.  The orthopedic doctor didn't really explain the results to me but has referred me for PT and pain management.  Can someone please help me understand the findings?

I am a 41 year old female who has had low back pain and issues with frequent urination (not sure if it's related) for almost 2 years.

IMPRESSION:

There is straightening of the lumbar spine lordosis and advanced Modic endplate changes at L4-L5 with discogenic disease.

-L3-L4:  Mild broad-disc bulge extending 1-2 mm beyond the vertebral endplate.  There is early tear of the annulus fibrosis of the right para-lateral margin.  There is moderate left and early mild right neuroforaminal narrowing.  Compression of the exiting left L3 nerve is suspected.  Fluid is noted within the facets.

-L4-L5:  Disc desiccation and significant disc height loss.  Aggressive Modic endplate changes.  Broad-based disc bulge extends 3 mm beyond the vertebral endplate and contributes toward moderately severe bilateral lateral recess encroachment.  There is facet arthropathy and thickening of the ligamentum flavum.  There is moderate bilateral neuroforaminal stenosis.  Compression of the exiting bilateral L4 nerves is suspected.  The budding L5 nerves appear grossly unremarkable.

An approximately 2 cm parapelvic cyst of the right kidney is identified.  A 2 cm left ovarian cyst is incidentally noted.

I appreciate any information you can share.

Thank you.

[15371]

Thank you so much for your comments!  I am going to post my question to the "Ask a Doctor" section as you suggested.  

Take care!

[Dee1956]

P.S. yes the urine problem can be related, while PT could help you might want to go to a neurosurgeon (sorry can't think of exact name right now)

[Dee1956]

Hi it does not sound good though if the orthopedic is recommending physical therapy that is a good sign.  Good docs will try uninvasive therapies first
I would also try going to a neuro surgeon if this does not work.
I had a ruptured disc L4-L5 and tried physical therapy for 8 months, it did not work so I was sent to neurosurgeon who specialized in backs.
I wish you the best and perhaps someone will come along who can give you a better answer.
There is also an "Ask The Doctor" option on here and for $25.00 you can ask the same question