Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] HI I am Anup Sarovar, suffering from piercing lower back pain since two years. MRI Study of LS Spine reports1) dehydrative change of L3-4 and L5-s1 discs observed2) diffuse L3-4 disc bulgewith central protrusionindenting the thecal sac. no root compression3)Central protrusion of L4-5 disc bulge imdenting the sac. no root compression.4) Diffuse L5-s1 disc bulge with central and left paracentral extrusion and caudal migration is seen causing left lateral recess narrowing and compressing of the left s1 nerve root.What do these mean?? and what are the treatment options
[|AI|]  Hi Mr. Anoop, thanks for writing to Chat Doctor. Your MRI findings depict that you have degenerative disc disease. Simple disc bulges without root compression is not a matter of concern as they will result only in backache. But, you have L5-S1 disc extrusion with migration and compression of nerve root which is significant. If you don't have any articular symptoms (pain from back going down up to toes), then only conservative management is advisable as follows :- Rest with analgesics / muscle relaxants- Methylcobalamine preparations- avoiding bending & jerky movements (riding a two-wheeler)- avoid lifting heavy weights- intermittent pelvic traction-using lumbar back support during prolonged sitting. If all the measures fail to provide relief, and you have severe articular symptoms, then surgical intervention may be needed. Hope this helps