What does my MRI mean?

[jkelley]

My MRI results are:
CONUS MEDULLARIS: Normal.
PARASPINAL TISSUES: Negative
DISC LEVELS:
L1-L2  Normal for age
L2-L3: Normal for age
L3-L4: Minimal disc desiccation. No significant bulge or focal protrusion.
L4-L5: Minimal disc desiccation. No significant bulge or focal protrusion.
L5-S1: Mild disc degeneration. Minimal right paracentral bulge. No significant central canal stenosis.  The foramina are widely patent.
IMPRESSION: Essentially normal examination for age (35). No significant central canal stenosis ro sign of neural impingement.  

So why am I experiencing chronic back and buttock pain?  The doctor I went to see said take an anti-inflammatory with heat.  This does not help.  Should I seek another opinion?

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Thank you very much for your question; although it is quite hard for me to give you a precise opinion here without being able to examine you, but I would try to provide you some relevant information about your health concern.

It appears like that you have mild disc degeneration at L5-S1 that is causing these symptoms. In disc degeneration, symptoms may originate due to nerve root pressure, pressure on the spinal cord and pressure on the tail bone. Common symptoms could be paralysis of muscles, pain radiating to the arms or legs, leg pain and numbness, tingling, or weakness. Warning symptoms can include loss of control of the bladder function, paralysis & spasticity of both the legs. If you are suffering continuous weakness and notice reduced strength of muscle bulk in left leg, please arrange an appointment with a neurologist right away. Further referral to a physiotherapist for spinal exercises could be beneficial and may produce relief of symptoms. Hope this helps. Take Care & Stay Healthy!!!

[mmix1423]

well it does say the l5-s1 has mild desiccation. that is the end of your spin. that would cause pain. it just isnt something that requires surgery.