Hi... I am trying to understand my MRI results. My family doctor was not very helpful and I am wondering if I need a referral to a specialist.

My results show: disc protrusion and annular tear of the left T9-T10 neural foramina.

I'm curious to know if others have had the same diagnosis and what the prognosis is for recovery. Although I've always had a "bad back", I can blame this specific episode on shovelling snow. So... I wish I knew if these results are showing the results of an acute injury from shovelling or if the protrusion and/or tear have been years in the making.