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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Did MRI For Lumbar Pain. Herniated L4-s1. Significant Acet Arthropathy And A Vertibral Slip. Can't Walk, Stand. Treatment?

I have recently had mri for lumbar pain. Herniated l4-s1 l1-l2. DDD, significant facet arthropathy and a vertibral slip at lowest lumbar point. 5 weeks untill I see neurosurgeon. Any idea what he might suggest. Poor quality of life at yhe moment, cant walk unaided or stand for longer than 30 mins. 40 yrs of age, 3 children.
posted on Sun, 7 Jul 2013
Twitter Mon, 8 Jul 2013 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 9 Jul 2013 Last reviewed on
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement,  's  Response
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.
All the findings in your description suggests "degenerative changes" in the L.S.spine.
And the vertebral slip of L5 over S1 indicates a "spondylotic defect" (a gap in the bony bridge connecting both upper and lower vertebral bones) which if progresses will lead to compression of the nerve root at that level and results in severe incapcitating leg pain.
If the slip is only Grade 1 or 2, it can be managed conservatively with Lumbosacral support or corset in order to prevent further slip
But if the slip is Grade 3 or 4 along with symptoms of leg pain, then I feel that the neurosurgeon may advice surgery.
Hope this information is helpful for you. Good day
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Did MRI For Lumbar Pain. Herniated L4-s1. Significant Acet Arthropathy And A Vertibral Slip. Can't Walk, Stand. Treatment?

Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. All the findings in your description suggests degenerative changes in the L.S.spine. And the vertebral slip of L5 over S1 indicates a spondylotic defect (a gap in the bony bridge connecting both upper and lower vertebral bones) which if progresses will lead to compression of the nerve root at that level and results in severe incapcitating leg pain. If the slip is only Grade 1 or 2, it can be managed conservatively with Lumbosacral support or corset in order to prevent further slip But if the slip is Grade 3 or 4 along with symptoms of leg pain, then I feel that the neurosurgeon may advice surgery. Hope this information is helpful for you. Good day