What Does My MRI Scan Report Indicate?

Posted on Tue, 10 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 Answered on

Wed, 2 Dec 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I just got my MRI back.

What does this mean:

L4-5: There is a 1-2mm bulge indenting the thecal sac. There is slight neural foraminal encroachment. The foramina are maintained.

L5-S1: There is disc desiccation and narrowing. There is a 1.2 cm right paramedian extrusion with severe right lateral recess encroachment and moderate central canal stenosis. The foramina are maintained.

There is slight left apical curvature in the lower lumbar spine.

I have severe back, buttock and back of leg pain, down calf and foot.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Herniated disc disease.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

Regarding to MRI report, there is herniated disc disease of your lumbar spine at L5-S1 level.

This condition is causing your symptoms, (I guess the pain you feel is radiated at your right leg).

The treatment consists first in conservative measures such rest, NSAID drugs, avoiding weight lifting, physical therapy with the aim of strengthening back muscles and reduce joints loading.

If these measures fail to improve your symptoms, decompressive surgery is indicated.

I suggest you to discuss your concerns and MRI results with a Neurosurgeon.

Hope you found the answer helpful

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (17 hours later)

Do you recommend traction?
Do you recommend heat/ice?
It's been this way for four weeks and hasn't gotten better.

I didn't know if it is okay to alternate between heat like in a spa or steam room with ice packs and if so how often and how long.

I also didn't know if traction is good or bad for my condition with a chiropractor.

I can't get in to see my doctor for another week so I am trying to alleviate the pain. It goes from right lower back, rt buttock, rt hamstring, rt calf and rt foot

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Ice should be avoided.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back and thanks for being on follow up.

Ice isn't recommended in your case, warm procedures may help alleviate the pain.

Careful traction also should improve the pain too.

Hope I helped you.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad