I'm new here and about 2 weeks ago, I complained to my doctor about back pain and numbness in my hands and arms. He ordered a cervical X-ray and then a follow up cervical MRI due to the results of the x-ray. My MRI reads:

Increased T2 signal within the cervical cord at the C5-6 level consistent with cervical cord myelomalacia. There is no evidence of cervical cord syrinx.

Degenerative endplate osteophyte formation within cervical vertebrae at C4-5, C5-6 and C6-7. Straightening of cervical lordosis with mild retropulsion of
C5 in relation to C4 and C6.

C2-3 no significant disc bulge or protrusion is identified. No significant facet osteoarthropathy or canal or foraminal stenosis is noted.

C3-4 spondylitic disc bulge and osteophyte complex asymmetric to the right with facet hypertrophy bilaterally. This causes flattening of the thecal sac and right greater than left foraminal stenosis and impingement of the exiting right greater than left C4 roots.

C4-5 spondylitic disc bulge and osteophyte complex with bilateral facet hypertrophy appreciated. grade 1 spondylolisthesis of C4 on C5 contributing to mild canal and bilateral foraminal stenosis.

C5-6 spondylitic disc bulge and osteophyte complex centrally resulting in severe cord compression and canal stenosis. There is also severe bilateral foraminal stenosis due to facet osteoarthropathy with impingement of the exiting C6 roots

C6-7 spondylitic disc bulge and osteophyte complex with bilateral facet hypertrophy and Luschka joint hypertrophy resulting in moderate canal and bilateral foraminal stenosis with impingement of the exiting C7 roots.

I saw a neurologist who told me that since I am not complaining of severe neck pain that I would have to convince him to do surgery. Needless to say, I'll never go back to his office again. He didn't really explain much to me and I'm wondering if this is something I should be really concerned about? Like I said, I have neck stiffness but no severe pain. I do have weakness in my hands, have noticed I seem to be off balance at times and I'm clumsy. I also have been experiencing urinary incontinence but I attributed it to the fact that I'm 53 and have had 2 children. I've also been having bowel changes and actually had an accident yesterday. I'm starting to wonder if this is more serious than the neurosurgeon suggested. Any input would by greatly appreciated.

brwnneyedgrl,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please, just let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Click on the following forum and you will find some great friends to help you out.

Spinal Disorders & Back Pain:
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum22.html

Please keep us up to date on your situation. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene