What does this MRI result mean in plain English

[Augie723]

L5-S1 broad-based disc bulge and bilateral facet arthropathy results in mild to moderate bilateral neuroforaminal narrowing

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there. The intervertebral  discs are flat, round structures about a quarter to three quarters of an inch thick with tough outer rings of tissue called the annulus fibrosis that contain a soft, white, jelly-like center called the nucleus pulposus. Flat, circular plates of cartilage connect to the vertebrae above and below each disc. Intervertebral discs separate the vertebrae, but they act as shock absorbers for the spine. They compress when weight is put on them and spring back when the weight is removed. Intervertebral discs make up about one-third of the length of the spine and constitute the largest organ in the body without its own blood supply. The discs receive their blood supply through movement as they soak up nutrients. The discs expand while at rest allowing them to soak up nutrient rich fluid. When this process is inhibited through repetitive movement, injury or poor posture, the discs become thinner and more prone to injury. This may be a cause of the gradual degeneration of the structure and function of the disc over time.
So disc bulge at L5- S1 and  bilateral facet arthropathy causes both sided neuroforaminal narrowing causing the nerve compression symptoms at the same level. Take care.

[LivingInHope]

So it looks like your disc between your fifth lumbar vertabrae and your first sacral vertebrae (in your low back) is bulging, but not herniated.  Arthorpathy is a disease or medically note worthy condition of the joint.  You've got this disease process going on in both sides of the joint.  Consequently, it is causing a narrowing from both sides to the opening where your spinal nerves go through.  See private message for more info.