OpenHealth Q&A

Concerns Following MRI Results: Seeking Guidance

Hello everyone, I'm attempting to share my experience for the third time, and I hope this one stays posted. I’m a 35-year-old male, standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 80 kilograms. My only health issue has been epilepsy, for which I take lamotrigine at a dosage of 50mg twice daily. I smoke approximately five cigarettes each day and do not consume alcohol. My epilepsy diagnosis came unexpectedly two years ago after I experienced a seizure while crossing a street, without prior testing. For over 15 years, I’ve endured significant pain in my back, neck, arms, and shoulders, but every healthcare professional insists it's simply due to aging. After consulting three different neurologists, I was referred for an MRI of my spine, and the findings have raised my concerns about potential future pain and possible surgeries. I’m anxious about what lies ahead. My MRI was performed on December 8, 2025, and the report was finalized on January 4, 2026. Here are the relevant details: **Context**: I’ve been experiencing daily episodes of myoclonus, which involves random limb jerking, especially in my right arm and leg, leading to unintentional dropping of objects. The goal of my MRI was to identify any underlying issues related to cortical or spinal myoclonus. **Comparative Analysis**: This examination compares to an MRI of my brain conducted on June 18, 2023. **Methodology**: Conducted following standard departmental protocols. **Findings**: **MRI of the Brain**: Enlarged perivascular spaces involving the genu of the corpus callosum are still present. However, there are no significant new structural abnormalities observed intracranially. **Whole Spine MRI**: Notable loss of normal cervical lordosis and existing degenerative cervical spondylosis. At the C5/C6 level, there is a focal broad-based posterior-central degenerative disc protrusion alongside an annular tear, plus a circumferential degenerative disc osteophyte complex. This combination leads to moderate to severe spinal canal stenosis, creating significant pressure on the ventral aspect of the spinal cord without any current signs that suggest compression. There is bilateral moderate neural foraminal stenosis as well. At the C6/C7 level, a degenerative disc bulge is noted which is central and extends to the right paracentral area, also causing some flattening of the ventral surface of the cord, although there are no intrinsic signal changes indicating compression. The neural foramina at this level appear unblocked. The thoracic vertebrae maintain normal alignment, but there’s evidence of moderate anterior osteophytic lipping and localized chronic changes in the endplate between T4/T5 and T10/T11 segments. Exaggerated lumbar lordosis is detected, alongside mild-to-moderate exit foraminal stenosis on the left at L3/L4 due to degenerative disc conditions and an associated annular tear, while the spinal canal and right-sided foramina are unaffected. The rest of the examined axial skeleton appears normal with proper craniocervical junction alignment. The spinal cord concludes at the T12 level, showing typical signals, with no pathologies or notable lesions detected in the surrounding soft tissue. **Conclusion**: No new focal intracranial structural abnormalities were found. The degenerative spondylosis primarily impacts the C5/C6 regions, suggesting looming cord compression, with further implications noted at C6/C7 and L3/L4 levels, warranting a referral for spinal surgery. Best, A concerned father seeking clarity on these findings!

Answers (1)

2/14/2026, 6:01:05 PM

OpenHealth AI

Thank you for sharing your experience and MRI findings, which understandably bring a lot of concerns. It’s important to approach this situation with clarity and a solid plan moving forward, especially considering your ongoing issues with pain and myoclonus.

Main Points:

• Your MRI indicates significant degenerative changes in your spine, particularly at the C5/C6 levels, with potential for future complications.
• While surgery may be recommended, taking proactive steps in managing your symptoms and knowing your options is essential.

Explanation:

Your MRI results show degenerative cervical spondylosis and some disc issues, leading to moderate to severe spinal canal stenosis at certain levels. This means that the spaces in your spine are becoming narrower, which may contribute to pain or neurological symptoms. The presence of myoclonus, combined with these findings, indicates that close management is critical to prevent potential complications and maintain your quality of life.

Currently, there are no signs of immediate compression on your spinal cord, but it is noted that your situation could worsen. The findings suggest a referral to a spinal surgeon might be necessary to evaluate the need for possible surgical intervention down the line.

Next Steps:

1. Educate Yourself: Research the conditions mentioned (cervical spondylosis, spinal stenosis) to understand their effects and management better. This knowledge can help you communicate effectively with your healthcare providers.

2. Consult with a Specialist: Schedule a consultation with a spinal neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine specialist to discuss your MRI findings in detail, the potential risks, and treatment options available, including physical therapy, medication management, and when surgery might be necessary.

3. Manage Symptoms: Begin a regimen of physical therapy focused on strengthening your back and improving flexibility, which can alleviate pressure on the spine and help manage pain and mobility.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of your pain levels, the frequency and severity of your myoclonus episodes, and any new symptoms. This will provide your healthcare providers with valuable information in managing your treatment.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Consider quitting smoking, as it can exacerbate spinal and overall health issues. Exploring resources or support systems for cessation might be beneficial.

6. Support System: Engage with friends, family, or support groups where you can share your experiences and receive emotional support during this challenging time.

It's normal to feel anxious about your results and the future, but taking these steps can empower you and lead to better management of your condition. If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask.