help read my MRI results
 

Multiplanar and multisequential MRI lumbar spine performed without contrast demonstrates there is no evidence of any compression fracture or bone marrow edema. T11-T12 through L4-L5 disc spaces well maintained without evidence of disc degeneration or herniation. Mild disc degeneration is seen at L5-S1 and associated moderate central and right lateral disc herniation is visualized. Subsequent compromise of dural sac and right lateral nerve root, as well as neural foramina is visualized. T2 weighted coronal images obtained through the sacrum demonstrate no evidence of any sacral fracture. Visualized bilateral sacral foramina appear unremarkable.

MRI for 34 year old female on 5/25/2010. Explain in plain english: "subsequent compromise of the dural sac and right lateral nerve root, as well as neural foramina is visualized". What does this mean? How severe is the injury? Does this require surgery to fix or are their alternatives like traction, chiroprctor, etc... recommendations? Where should I go from here. Have only seen my GP recently about this. I have been in pain for over two years - travels from my lower back through my leg/s. I take pain pills to deal with it. I believe this to be the result of heavy lifting. Any sugeestions. I am scared of surgery but if that is the only way, then so be it. Thanks for listening.

All that means is the disc is pushing on all of them. One thing I want to tell you is DO NOT GO TO A CHIROPRACTOR!!! i've had 2 different neurosurgeons tell me that unless I want to be paralyzed and/or in a wheelchair, do not see a chiropractor. They both said that they are not trained enough in the central nervous system, and one wrong push, pull, manipulation and you could be in real trouble.

No, you probably are not a surgical patient at this point. Most doctors won't touch you unless there's more serious damage than this. I WOULD suggest tho that you ask for a referral to a neurosurgeon just to get his opinion on this, and that way you'll have your foot in the door in case you need surgery later on down the line. But you MUST remember that surgery should be a LAST RESORT, after all conservative methods have been tried and failed. Surgery should never be done to try to relieve pain. It never works. Surgery only corrects mechanical problems. If you do happen to get pain relief with surgery, you got lucky. Most often you end up with the same pain or worse.

Also you are never the same after surgery and have certain limits afterwards. Your neuro might also refer you to pain management, which would probably be your best bet. There they have plenty of options for conservative care. I wish you the best of luck and I hope you find relief for your pain. God bless. Hugs, Lee