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What Does This X-ray Report Indicate?

Posted on Mon, 6 Mar 2017

Question: A recent x-ray revealed I had "degenerative changes to my thoracic spine", but with no additional details. Would it be possible to review my attached films and elaborate?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (23 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Images shows degenerative osteophytes in dorsal spine.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for writing to HealthcareMagic,
I've gone through your images and understand your concern,

Images shows degenerative osteophytes in dorsal spine.These are generally age related changes.
Osteophytes are formed due to chronic stress on annulus fibrosis.
Other findings like inter vertebral disc space are normal.

MRI may be advised if clinically indicated.

Chest X-ray is not fully covered.Lateral lung fields are not seen.
Visualized lung fields and cardiac shadow appears normal.

Get well soon.

Hope I have answered your query.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr. Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Indu Kumar (30 minutes later)

Thank you for your quick reply Dr. XXXXXXX may I ask what osteophytes are and how they affect me? I do have back pain, although not severe. It's worse when I've been sitting or laying (sleeping) for extended periods. Can these osteophytes be a cause and/or related?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Osteophytes are generally age related changes.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for writing to HealthcareMagic,
I've gone through your images and understand your concern,

Osteophytes are generally age related changes.
You may need MRI to see for any compression effects.
Pain may due to many causes including osteophytes.
You may also need physiotherapy for strengthening back muscles.

Get well soon.

Hope I have answered your query.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr. Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana