Understanding My X-ray Results: A Request for Clarification
I’m a 34-year-old woman standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 190 pounds. Since my teenage years, I have experienced significant upper body development. Chronic back pain has plagued me for many years, yet it was never addressed until recently when I got X-ray imaging done. My physician mentioned that I have a mild case of scoliosis, but now I’m considering whether it might be wise to seek another opinion on the matter. EXAMINATION RESULTS: The films displayed reduced motion clarity. The cervical curvature shows a loss of lordotic arch. The surrounding soft tissues appear normal. All vertebral body heights are aligned as expected, and the height of the intervertebral discs remains intact. The facet joints also look normal on examination. The odontoid view was obscured due to positioning. EXAMINATION RESULTS: The anterior-posterior (AP) and lateral images of the thoracic spine were captured. The T1 vertebra was not included in these images. A slight S-shaped curvature in the thoracolumbar region has been observed, with a thoracic rightward curve measuring 5.7 degrees and a lumbar leftward curve of 6.8 degrees. Normal heights were noted in the vertebral bodies. There is some mild spurring at the anterior endplates and slight narrowing of the disc space in the mid-thoracic region. The thoracic section includes twelve vertebrae with ribs. EXAMINATION RESULTS: The five lumbar vertebrae were visualized, revealing a rib attached to the right side of L1 and a somewhat transitional S1. There is a noticeable lordosis, while only mild narrowing of the L5-S1 interspace was detected. No fractures or dislocations were observed in the findings.
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 3:40:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your X-ray results and background information. It sounds like you have some concerns regarding your chronic back pain and the findings of mild scoliosis. It’s completely understandable to seek clarity on these results and consider whether a second opinion might be beneficial.
Main Points:
- Your X-ray results show mild scoliosis and some degenerative changes, but overall, there are no fractures or significant abnormalities.
- Considering a second opinion can be useful, especially for persistent or troubling symptoms.
Explanation:
Your X-ray results indicate a slight curvature of your spine (scoliosis), with details on curvature degrees being mild. The loss of cervical lordosis (a normal inward curve of the neck) could be associated with chronic back pain or postural changes over time. The presence of mild disc narrowing and spurring suggests some age-related wear and tear, which can also contribute to discomfort.
Chronic back pain can have various causes, including muscle strain, herniated discs, or structural changes like scoliosis. Since you’ve had ongoing back pain, understanding these results is essential to decide on further steps.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your pain levels, any changes, and activities that exacerbate or relieve your symptoms. This information will be useful for any healthcare provider.
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Evaluate Treatment Options: If not already discussed, consider exploring physical therapy, which can help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine and improve flexibility.
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Seek a Second Opinion: If you still have concerns about the interpretation of your X-rays and your ongoing pain, seeking a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist or physiatrist can provide more clarity and options.
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Focus on Posture and Ergonomics: Pay attention to your posture during daily activities, especially while sitting for long periods. Use ergonomic furniture that supports your back.
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Consider Routine Physical Activity: Gentle exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga could help maintain mobility and reduce pain over time. Always make sure these activities are comfortable and suited to your condition.
It's important to feel confident in understanding and managing your health. If you need more information or want to discuss specific symptoms or treatments, feel free to ask.
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