MRI results

[CB58]

I'm wondering how bad the findings of my recent low back MRI really are;
1)  L4-5 severe central spinal stenosis, assoc with right lateral subluxation and posterior osteophyte and inferior recess stenosis of the neuroforamina bilaterally.
2)  L5-S1 moderate right neuroforaminal stenosis
3)  L2-3 moderate parasagittal and lateral broad based disc protrusion and asymmetric moderate mass effect left lateral thcal sac.

The pain is not extreme, but does interfere with normal movement, and at times the stiffness is painful.
Thank you

[CB58]

Thank you for your feedback.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

The report describes:
1. Severe narrowing on the spinal canal at L4/ L5 with associated degenerative changes and partial dislocation on the right side and narrowing of the spaces that carry the spinal nerves.
2. Moderate narrowing of the space that carries the spinal nerves at L5/ S1 on the right side.
3. At L2/ L3 there is a moderate grade disc protrusion, causing pressure on the outer covering of the spinal cord.
          Since the changes are described to be severe at L4/ L5, there is likely to be an associated compression of the neural structures at the level, which would require a surgical/ interventional approach to relieve the pressure. I would suggest discussing the situation and the suggested management plan in detail with your treating neurologist.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!