[simplz]

#20435

MRI Cervical Spine Report
Sagittal T1, T2 and STIR; axial gradient-echo images.

There is loss of the normal cervical curvature. Normal signal intensity of the vertebral marrow. Vertebral alignment is maintained.

There are disc-osteophyte complexes from C2 to T1 with contact of the cord from C3 to C6. Normal signal intensity of the cord.

No significant exit foraminal narrowing.

Conclusion:
Multi-level cervical degenerative disc disease. No significant exit foraminal narrowing.

I did this MRI Scan in Year 2009. The pain has never really subsided. I used to eat Anarex to give temporary relief from the pains. In Year 2012, I started doing yoga and it helped to alleviate the pain. I was an avid jogger but has since cut down jogging to a slow 10km weekly jog. I am active in road cycling. Of late, the pain has returned substantially.

Can you please tell me the degree of severity of my condition based on the above 2009 report which was never clearly explained to me and how I can continue to enjoy sports? I am 37 years old male.

Thank you.

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#20513

This MRI report is very undescriptive. “There is loss of the normal cervical curvature. Normal signal intensity of the vertebral marrow. Vertebral alignment is maintained. There are disc-osteophyte complexes from C2 to T1 with contact of the cord from C3 to C6. Normal signal intensity of the cord. No significant exit foraminal narrowing”.

“Disc/osteophyte complexes” are an indication of degenerative disc disease but the glossing over of this finding is not acceptable.

You need a full work-up including a complete history and physical examination as well as new MRI and X-rays (with flexion/extension views).

Dr. Corenman

PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
 
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.

[simplz]

#20528

Thank you for your advice, Dr Corenman.

The Head of Orthopedics Department did mention that my condition could not be cured and I would have to live with the discomfort and pains. Any surgery would have 20% chance of success.

I will get back to you soonest with the full MRI images which was taken in Year 2009 and will like to have your second opinion before proceeding to take a new MRI and further diagnosis.

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#20587

MRI images completed in 2009 would not be very helpful to understand your current disorder. New MRI images would be very helpful. The opinion of a surgeon reviewing images that are 6 years old would in my opinion not be as helpful as perusal of new images. A new MRI would be helpful.

Dr. Corenman

PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
 
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.

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