HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Does This MRI Test Result For Spine Indicate?

Is the following MRI result considered normal for a 50 yr old male? Mild spinal stenosis at L3-4. Moderate spinal stenosis at L4-5 with narrowing of the left neural foramen. Broad-based disc bulge with left paracentral disc herniation resulting in stenosis of the left lateral recess and left neural foramen at L5-S1.
Mon, 16 May 2016
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using using healthcare magic

These changes would not be considered normal at any age.

Stenosis means that there is narrowing of pathway, it is noted at two levels. This can potentially affect the nerves in these areas particularly at the L4 to 5 level where it is said to be moderate with narrowing of the neural foramen (where nerves pass through).

There is bulging of a disc L5 to S1 which can also cause increased pain and may also impact on surrounding nerves.

Pain management and physiotherapy are the main outlets of treatment.
Surgery would be the another option but this would be reserved till absolutely necessary.

I hope this helps
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
What Does This MRI Test Result For Spine Indicate?

HI, thanks for using using healthcare magic These changes would not be considered normal at any age. Stenosis means that there is narrowing of pathway, it is noted at two levels. This can potentially affect the nerves in these areas particularly at the L4 to 5 level where it is said to be moderate with narrowing of the neural foramen (where nerves pass through). There is bulging of a disc L5 to S1 which can also cause increased pain and may also impact on surrounding nerves. Pain management and physiotherapy are the main outlets of treatment. Surgery would be the another option but this would be reserved till absolutely necessary. I hope this helps