OpenHealth Q&A

Understanding My Back MRI Results: Seeking Clarification

Hello everyone, I’m a 20-year-old woman who has been dealing with persistent back pain for the past six weeks. The discomfort started unexpectedly, without any previous injury. I feel the pain in both my upper and lower back, sometimes radiating on either side of my spine. It can vary from a dull ache to a more intense throbbing sensation. Activities such as bending forward or sitting in a vehicle exacerbate the pain. Although I play netball, I took a three-week break when the pain first arose, but I’ve returned to playing, albeit for just a quarter of the game. I’m currently taking anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relief medications. My doctor interpreted the MRI findings as indicating a bulging disc, inflammation throughout my back, and minor degeneration. I’m hoping someone here can help me better understand these results in simpler terms, as I’m a bit confused. The doctor has suggested physiotherapy, and I have an appointment scheduled for next week to discuss this further. Thank you for your help! **MRI Analysis of the Spine: Thoracic and Lumbosacral** **Clinical Background:** Long-term unusual back pain that hasn't improved with standard treatments. **Findings:** The lumbar spine is well-aligned, with normal height and positioning of the vertebrae, showing no signs of compression fractures or spondylolisthesis. There are no abnormalities noted in the bone signal, and the intervertebral disc spaces appear even and normal. The lumbar discs exhibit a consistent signal but do not show significant herniation. In the thoracic spine MRI, the vertebrae maintain standard height and alignment, free from any compression fractures or spondylolisthesis. At the T5-T6 level, the disc height is slightly diminished, accompanied by a median disc bulge, but there is no narrowing in the central canal or neuroforamina. At levels T7-T8 and T8-T9, there is dehydration of the discs and median bulging with slight elevation of the posterior longitudinal ligament, without any signs of central canal or neuroforaminal narrowing. The facet joints in both the thoracic and lumbar regions appear normal. The spinal cord thickness and signal quality in these areas are also normal, and the cauda equina exhibits no irregularities. Some soft tissue swelling is observed posteriorly between T12 and L2. **Summary:** Mild disc dehydration at T5-T6, T7-T8, and T8-T9 with median bulging, without central canal or neuroforaminal stenosis. There is also mild to moderate non-specific soft tissue swelling in the posterior lower thoracic and upper lumbar region.

Answers (1)

7/15/2025, 7:30:57 AM

OpenHealth AI

Your MRI results indicate some mild changes in your back, which can explain your persistent pain. While it can be confusing, I’ll break it down for you:

Main Points:

1. Bulging Discs: You have some bulging discs in the thoracic part of your spine, which can put pressure on surrounding nerves and cause pain.
2. Mild Degeneration: "Mild degeneration" generally refers to some natural wear and tear on the discs. It’s common, especially after extended physical activity.
3. Inflammation: There is inflammation in the soft tissues of your back, which can contribute to your discomfort.

Explanation:

• Bulging Discs: Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine. When they bulge, they can put pressure on nearby nerves, leading to pain. The absence of significant herniation suggests that while the discs are not in ideal condition, they aren't severely damaged.
• Soft Tissue Swelling: This can happen due to inflammation, which is your body’s response to injury or irritation. It may contribute to localized pain and discomfort.
• Mild Degeneration: This is a common finding, especially in those who are physically active. It doesn’t necessarily indicate a serious problem but can explain the pain, especially during certain movements.

Next Steps:

1. Continue Managing Pain: Continue taking your anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed. These can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
2. Follow through with Physiotherapy: Your upcoming physiotherapy sessions will be crucial. A physiotherapist can teach you specific exercises to strengthen your back, improve flexibility, and reduce tension.
3. Modify Activities: Listen to your body—avoid activities that worsen your pain, like certain movements in netball or prolonged sitting in the vehicle.
4. Stay Active: While taking it easy is important, gentle movements such as walking can help maintain back function. Incorporate light stretching if pain allows, focusing on your entire back.

Final Thoughts:

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed with this news, especially at your age. Remember that many people experience similar issues, and with the right approach, including physiotherapy and pain management, you can work towards relief and improved function. If you notice any sudden changes in symptoms or find activities increasingly painful, keep your doctor informed. You're taking important steps toward feeling better!