Lumbar MRI Test Results Help

[debgllghr]

Hi,
I recently had an MRI test run on the Lumbar part of my spine.  I am really confused of what the report reads.  This is what it says:

Findings:
The lumbar spine is normal in alignment and marrow signal.  The conus terminates normally at L1-L2 and has a normal intrinsic signal.

At L4-L5, there are minimal bilateral degenerative facet changes with small bilateral facet osteophytes.  There is a tiny central disc herniation minimally indenting the ventral thecal sac without spinal cal stenosis or neuroforaminal narrowing.

AT L5-S1, there is a tiny central disc herniation minimally indenting the ventral thecal sac without spinal canal stenosis or neuroforaminal narrowing.  A tiny transverse annular tear is present.

The remaining levels are normal.

Impression:
Multilevel degenerative changes as above without evidence of neural impingement.

Can anyone explain to me what this means?

[manpt]

This means you should have back pain but no significant leg pain. BUT if you do, rest assured that it doesn't mean you're crazy. MRI's are not terribly specific and need to be correlated with symptoms. Otherwise, you have the normal spine of say a 45-55 year old.

[fairylady77]

basically speaking, you have 2 discs that are just a tiny bit out of place...with a teeny tiny tear...a tear can mean two things...either that its like a scratch on your skin that hasnt been completely broken the skin to where you bleed.....or it can mean that the tear is torn just enough for disc material to seep out....like a scratch on your skin thats just enough to get you to bleed. there is nothing pressing on any nerves, therefore, you should not be experiencing anything more than back pain. (meaning, no leg pain).  degenerative disc disease is a part of the normal aging process....it means normal wear and tear on discs as we age. hope this helps.