I had an MRI done recently that indicated central desiccation of all intervertebral disks particularly L2-L3 and inferiorly.
There is some posterior protrusion noted at L4-L5 and L5-S1.
Axial views indicate there is facet joint hypertrophy at L5-S1, particularly on the right side, with some narrowing of the neural foramina on the right at L5-S1. No focal disk herniation is noted. There is some lateral bulging of the disk at L5-S1 slightly obliterating the lateral neural foramen.
L4-L5 shows bilateral facet joint degenerative changes somewhat worse on the left than the right. There is a broad-based, diffuse disk bulge with lateral component, which is left sided, this extends laterally and may be symptomatic on the left side.
My symptoms present with low, moderate to severe back pain with left and right nerve involvement across low back down bilateral sides of both legs to the knees.
1. What does all this mean in layman's terms?
2. What do you predict the out come may be?
NOTE: I have had two (2) arthroscopic knee surgeries on my right knee in less than 1 year, both times I presented with torn meniscus (medial and lateral) with severe arthritis and degenerative disease, I am only 44 years old. I am not quit sure what they hope to accomplish,It has been suggested I see a neuro surgeon,do you feel this could be a surgical situation?
I can no longer do the jobs I have been trained for, resrictions include: Sendentary to light duty no pushing,pulling,or lifting of more than 20lbs.
Please answer as much as you feel comfortable with!
Terri