My MRI results for lower back pain states--Disc desiccation and minimal posterior disc protrusion slightly asymmetric toward the right. The thecal sac is indented without narrowing of the spinal canal. Disc minimally narrows both neural foramen and lateral recesses. What does this mean? Thank you
Hi, thanks for posting your concern in the Chat Doctor. Your MRI finding suggests that you have an early degenerative disc space disease, with herniation of the disc posteriorly and towards right. This has caused pressure over the thecal sac. The lumen size of neural foramen and lateral recess has decreased. Actually, between the bodies of our vertebrae, there are jelly like material which prevents friction during movement. Degenerative conditions cause the water content of that material reduced, which is disc desiccation. As the degenerative disease progresses, that material bulges and eventually herniated out from its usual location This would cause back pain as well as pain along the supply of the nerves, whicChatDoctore out from the spinal cord due to narrowing of their outlet causing more pressure. I think you should immediately consult your spine surgeon or orthopedic surgeon for further management. For the time being, if you have pain, you should take bed rest. Traction may also be needed. If you are pain free, you should perform abdominal muscle strengthening exercise. Please also avoid lifting heavy weight. For any further questions, please write back.