OpenHealth Q&A

Thank you for sharing your detailed MRI report and concerns regarding your back pain and discomfort. It's understandable to feel anxious when trying to understand complex medical information, especially regarding something as vital as your spine. Let's break this down.

Summary of MRI Findings

1. Normal vertebrae alignment and normal conus medullaris: This means that your vertebrae are aligned properly, and the end of your spinal cord is in a healthy position.
2. Congenital spinal canal narrowing: This is a naturally occurring condition where the spinal canal is narrower than usual but typically doesn't cause issues on its own.
3. Disc bulges and facet joint degeneration: You have some disc bulges at L3/L4 and L4/L5, which can cause discomfort and may pressure nearby nerves. However, significant nerve root compression isn't reported, meaning serious nerve-related issues aren't currently present.

Clarifying Concerns

• Moderate canal stenosis suggests some narrowing of the spinal canal that could potentially cause discomfort, but your report indicates that there's still some cerebrospinal fluid visible, which is a positive sign.
• Loss of cervical lordosis and degenerative changes in the cervical and thoracic spine mean that your neck has lost its normal curvature, and some wear and tear is present, which is common as we age. However, if you aren't experiencing severe issues related to this, it isn't an immediate cause for concern.

Actionable Steps

1. Continue Weight Management: As you've successfully lost 64 pounds, continuing to maintain a healthy weight is beneficial. It can alleviate pressure on your spine and improve overall function.

2. Gentle Physical Activity: Consider resuming physiotherapy or seeking a physical therapist experienced in spinal care and pain management. They can tailor a program focusing on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that consider your stiffness and pain levels. This might include:

   • Water-based exercises: These can be easier on your joints and spine.
   • Gentle yoga: Look for beginner classes focusing on flexibility and strengthening, especially for the back.
   • Walking: Start with short distances and gradually increase as tolerated.

3. Managing Pain: Use over-the-counter pain relief as recommended by your GP, but if pain increases, keep track of it and consider seeking further advice to adjust your care plan.

4. Education: Since understanding medical terms can be challenging, consider looking for resources, such as short videos or websites dedicated to explaining spinal health. Engaging in forums or support groups can also assist in understanding how others manage similar conditions.

5. Regular Monitoring: Given your situation, consider keeping a symptom diary to monitor your pain levels, physical activity, and any changes in your symptoms. This could be a great tool during future consultations with healthcare providers.

Reassurance

It's normal to feel anxious about your health, especially with complex issues like yours. Your proactive approach to weight loss and your willingness to engage with your healthcare team are excellent steps in managing your back health. Stay focused on gradual improvements and seek support when needed.

If any new symptoms arise or if you have concerns about your current symptoms escalating, speak with your GP to reassess your treatment plan. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and taking small, consistent steps can lead to improvement over time.