I had a microdisectomy 2 years ago for l4-l5 disc herniation. I recently started having aches in my back and then monday could barely stand up. I had an anxiety attack because thepain caused a total flashback to the previous pain. Today i could barely stand up much less walk.

My primary sent me for an MRI and only said he is referring me back to ortho. I am trying to interpret the MRI to see how bad it really is:

At l4-l5 there is disc bulging with superimposed central disc extrusion, extending for a craniocaudal length of 11.5mm and an AP dimension of approx 5.2mm. This extrusion results in mild spinal canal stenosis which effaces the right L5 nerve root within the spinal canal and abuts the left L5 nerve root within the spinal canal. The exiting nerve roots appear spared.

Impression - multilevel disc bulging with l4-l5 disc protrusion that effaces the right l5 nerve root and abuts the left L5 nerve root.

Any interpretations?

Thanks!!!

So sorry you are having such trouble with your back. I am in no way a professional, just had two cervial fusions, the last one C3-7 with all the hardware. I know from my own MRI, that anything in the spinal space or pushing against it isn't good. Disk buldging pushing into the spinal canal can be trouble. Please look up each word in your MRI. I did this with my MRI and got a better idea of what was happening before I went back for my consultation with the neruo surgeon. I would check with a neurologist not just and orthopedic surgeon. Of course you know to do all therapy advised and get second opinion before doing any surgery. Surgery is always a last resort. There are others here who know alot more than I do thats for sure. Re-post again on the front page if you are not getting enough answers and input. There will be more people in the spinal forum to help you. wish I knew more to help you. Try not to panick. I know that sinking feeling too. There is help here and with doctors. don't give up and keep seeking the answers with opinions. I wish you all the best. ginnie

Thanks Ginnie!

I am trying to stay calm, but it is definitely a challenge right now. For the last 2 years I have felt so good ... I always said I would never wish that pain on my worst enemy! Of course I have had the aches and what not. Then a few weeks ago I started getting the weird cramps I used to get ... the ones where you swear your leg is going to break in half. I kept dismissing it saying it was just the change in weather. Then this week when the major pain hit Plus, I am sure the anxiety amplifies the pain.