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[|Human|] I just got back the results of my MRI. Don t know what it means, either. It says At L4-5, there is broad-based annular bulging, somewhat more prominent in a left paramedian distribution. There is also hypertrophic degenerative facet disease. This results in slight effacement of the ventral thecal sac and bilateral neural foraminal encroachment, left greater than right. On another part of my MRI it reads, At C6-7, there is broad-based annular bulging and bilateral uncovertebral joint hypertrophy, right greater than left. This results in effacement of the ventral thecal sac and bilateral neural foraminal encroachment, right greater than left. What does all this mean, and how can my back get fixed? Thanks!
[|AI|]  Hi, Thanks for writing in. Your MRI cervical and lumbar spine findings are explained below in simple language.1. At L4-5, there is broad-based annular bulging, somewhat more prominent in a left para median distribution. There is also hypertrophic degenerative facet disease. This results in slight effacement of the ventral thecal sac and bilateral neural foraminal encroachment, left greater than right. In the lower back region, there is a disc at L 4 - L 5 level which is bulging from its normal position and causing pressure on the sac covering the spinal cord. There are degenerative changes in the area and the bulging disc is causing pressure on both sides at the nerve roots. This is the cause of any lower back pain you are experiencing2. At C6-7, there is broad-based annular bulging and bilateral uncovertebral joint hypertrophy, right greater than left. This results in effacement of the ventral thecal sac and bilateral neural foraminal encroachment, right greater than left. In the lower neck region also there is a bulging disc at C 6 - C 7 level and this is causing pinching of nerve roots on both sides, slightly more on the right side. This is mentioned as bilateral neural foraminal encroachment. This is causing any pain in neck region and numbness or tingling in the hands. Treatment of the above conditions requires you to do physiotherapy and take mild pain relievers which can treat nerve related pain. Please do not make sudden neck movements and lift heavy weights. Avoid standing for long durations at work or home.