Understanding My X-ray Findings
I recently reviewed some of my medical documents from when I was 13 years old, and I came across an x-ray report. Currently, I am 25 years old and female. Here’s a summary of what the report indicated: FINDINGS: The cervical spine appears normal. I have 11 pairs of ribs, and the report notes that T12 is non-rib bearing. There is an 11-degree levoscoliosis identified between T10 and L2, with the apex located at T12-L1. Importantly, there are no signs of any segmentation anomalies. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis is 11-degree thoracolumbar levoscoliosis. Is it possible that I am missing ribs, or am I interpreting this information incorrectly?
Answers (1)
6/15/2025, 3:50:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to have questions about your X-ray findings, especially after discovering this information as an adult. Based on the report you provided, here are the main points regarding your findings:
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Number of Ribs: You have 11 pairs of ribs, which is known as a variant anatomy. Most people have 12 pairs, but having 11 is not uncommon and is generally not a cause for concern.
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Levoscoliosis: You have an 11-degree curve in your spine, specifically in the thoracolumbar region. This type of curvature, known as levoscoliosis, is not unusual and may not cause any problems, especially if it's mild like yours.
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No Segmentation Anomalies: It's good news that there are no signs of segmentation anomalies. This means your spine is structured normally in terms of its segments, which is a positive aspect.
Explanation
Having 11 pairs of ribs means that your anatomy is unique, but it is not indicative of a health issue by itself. The presence of levoscoliosis can vary among individuals and at this degree (11 degrees), it is typically considered mild. Such curvatures can sometimes be asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any pain or functional issues.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any symptoms related to your spine, such as back pain or discomfort. If you experience significant issues, consider addressing them directly.
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Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity that strengthens your back and core muscles. Exercises like swimming, pilates, and yoga can help improve spinal alignment and support your posture.
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Consult with a Care Provider (if needed): If you have concerns about your rib count or the scoliosis, or if you experience pain, discussing this with a healthcare provider can be beneficial for further evaluation.
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Educate Yourself: Understanding your body better can help ease any concerns. Consider researching more about scoliosis and rib anatomy or discussing these findings with someone knowledgeable, such as a physical therapist.
By focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and monitoring how you feel, you can ensure that you manage any potential issues effectively. Let me know if you would like more specific advice on exercises or strategies to strengthen your back!
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