Question
Can you please help me understand my MRI.  What I have been told is that I have scoliosis and that I have an extra vertebra (L6) which next to L5 and is fused to my sacrum.  I didn't have any major problems with my back until I became pregnant. I can no longer sit for any period of time without pain and my right leg going numb, I have a hard time walking and the more I walk the more my right leg goes numb. Also when I bend over I feel like something is going to snap or break in my lower right side hip area. I trip over my right foot and have a hard time picking up my toes.  For the past 2 years I have done physical therapy, massage therapy and also see a chiropractor regularly. I have been referred to a neurosurgeon and would like to know what is going on with my back.

MRI of the lumbar spine:

Lumbar and Thoracolumbar Dextroscoliosis is demonstrated.

The L1-2 and L2-3 levels demonstrate there is no herniated nucleus pulposus or significant central spine canal stenosis. The neural foramina appear essentially patent.

L3-4 level demonstrates loss of disc height.

L4-5 level demonstrates posterolateral disc bulge in combination with facet arthropathy narrowing bilateral neural foramina most narrow to the right.

L5-S1 leverl demonstrates dis buldge effacing the ventral epidural fat. Facet arthropathy is noted bilaterally.

MRI of the Thoracic Spine:

Mid thoracic dextroscoliosis with thoracolumbar levoscoliosis.

There is loss of disc height and hydration at the T4-5 and T7-8 levels.

Any information would be greatly appreciated!!!!

Answer
Ashley;

When the nervous output to the motor functions of your body, sending you to the neurosurgeon is the right call.  I've written a 5 page article about lumbar discs on my website, www.dynamicclinic.com, if it may help.

Traction and extension are definitely the only way to go for you, especially as a drugless approach.  Look up a lumbar decompression provider in your area... you may find a lot of relief from that and from chiropractic, if you dare.  (it's safe) :)

Hope this answer helps.

Dr. Peter Carr
Seattle, Washington