spina bifida surgery at 3 months. 50 years old and having a lot of issues, pain

[suez766]

Hi, Im looking for Opinions on my MRI results. I have a history of: Spina Bifida, Bilateral Radiculopathy

mild facet arthropathy in all disk

L 4-5  mild opposing endplate fatty marrow diskogenic changes are present. more pronounced posteriorly. central disk protrusion with inferior extrusion is slightly asymmetric towards the right.  the disk herniation indents the ventral aspect of the thecal sac

L5-S1 broad based disk bulge encroaches into the neural foramina there is moderate bilateral, foraminal stenosis.  

AT L4-5 there is annular spondylitic disk bulge with super imposed central/ right paracentral disk protrusion closely approaching the descending  L5 right nerve root. mild right lateral recess and right foraminal narrowing is present.

[suez766]

Thank you for your response.  My main concern is that any pain medicine I have tried in the past make me feel either sick to my stomach or just weird and not mentally able to function the same.  I am also unable to have surgery due to my scar area from spina bifida surgery at birth.  Therefore the problems I do have will only get worse.  Any suggestions on pain meds?

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
The MRI shows degenerative changes along with disc herniation at various places. Generally multiple vertebral joint involvement, disc bulges and other problems are managed conservatively. The treatment is a combination of pain killers, muscle relaxants, physiotherapy, manual therapy, hydrotherapy, and exercise. Most people respond to this. You could wear a lumbo-scaral corset while you are up and about. This will keep the spine straight and lessen the pain. Please consult your doctor regarding this. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.