I'll try to help:

At C2-3 You have minor bone spurs and minor facet hypertrophy (overgrowth of bone). There is mild left foraminal narrowing. The foramen are the holes that the nerves pass thru to get to the spinal cord.

At C3-4 It's the same as above except you have right AND left foraminal narrowing. (mild).

At C4-5 Same as above

At C5-6 Same as above PLUS a broad based disc bulge and mild spinal canal stenosis. Stenosis is where the spinal canal narrows.

At C6-7 Same as C4-5

C7-T1 Same as above EXCEPT SEVERE left foraminal narrowing.


From what the doctor said, most of this is mild degenerative changes -- and it probably comes with age. It doesn't look bad really. What symptoms are you having? I don't see anything that would warrant surgery at this point, but you MIGHT just want to take your films and get an opinion from a Neurosurgeon, just to be sure. Do NOT jump into any surgery without getting at LEAST 3 opinions. The original opinion, and 2 others. Surgery will not totally relieve your pain. Surgery is ONLY for mechanical problems. After surgery you'll be left with the same pain or worse, usually. So dont plan on being pain free after any surgery.

If you have further questions, let us know ok? God bless & take care. Hugs, Lee