I think anywhere that it says cord flatteningmeans the spinal cord is being affected = pain & symptoms.

Some MRI reports will say how much or what degree of flattening.
like mild, moderate, severe or even a % amount or measurement.

Since it isn't stated in the report - I'd ask the Drs - about that...
and you can even get a copy of your own MRI - sometimes on a CD or copies of the films.
Kind of nice to have for your own info.
when you see your pictures and compare to Images of MRIs posted on the computer, it really helps.

Schmorl's Nodes
http://www.chiroweb.com/archives/09/19/16.html