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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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MRI Done. What Does The Findings Show? Suggestions?

MRI states: Slight antero-listhesis at 3mm L3 on L4. Loss of lordosis. Should I be concerned about this loss of lordosis or is that mild due to the previous sentence? FYI the MRI also says I have severe facet arthropathy with capsular and bony hypertrophy at L3-4.
Wondering how to approach this with my orthopedist and best questions to ask him?
Thanks for your help.
Sat, 3 Aug 2013
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement 's  Response
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.

All the MRI findings suggest DEGENERATIVE CHANGES in the lumbar spine at L3-L4 level.

The loss of lumbar lordosis is not due to Listhesis. It is the result of protective muscle spasm that occurs secondary to any problem in the L.S.spine.

The management for your problem is by conservative means as follows -

* avoid lifting heavy weights as it imparts more strain on your back
* avoid forward bending activities as it will worsen the anterior listhesis
* Use a lumbosacral back support to prevent further Listhesis & to augment your spinal muscles
* Intermittent pelvic traction to cause stretching of the muscles
* Maintain optimum body weight as over weight will worsen your listhesis
* Physiotherapy to strengthen your back muscles. Physiotherapy has to be done only after the acute pain has subsided.
* Judicious use of analgesics and muscle relaxants.

By following the above measures, you will get substantial symptom relief.

Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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MRI Done. What Does The Findings Show? Suggestions?

Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. All the MRI findings suggest DEGENERATIVE CHANGES in the lumbar spine at L3-L4 level. The loss of lumbar lordosis is not due to Listhesis. It is the result of protective muscle spasm that occurs secondary to any problem in the L.S.spine. The management for your problem is by conservative means as follows - * avoid lifting heavy weights as it imparts more strain on your back * avoid forward bending activities as it will worsen the anterior listhesis * Use a lumbosacral back support to prevent further Listhesis & to augment your spinal muscles * Intermittent pelvic traction to cause stretching of the muscles * Maintain optimum body weight as over weight will worsen your listhesis * Physiotherapy to strengthen your back muscles. Physiotherapy has to be done only after the acute pain has subsided. * Judicious use of analgesics and muscle relaxants. By following the above measures, you will get substantial symptom relief. Hope this information is helpful. Good day