Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 3/28/2009

Question
Where do I go to avoid the hospital which is where I may be heading. I can
get no sense out of anyone. I got myself an MRI scan and need to understand
it. One factor is that-
At L5/S1 the posterior arch structures are dysplastic. There is an advanced
hypertrophic left sided facet joint, & hyperplastic right facet joint. There is a
large osteophyte arising from the left facet joint causing severe lateral recess
stenosis and compression of the left S1 nerve root. Borderline significant left
L5 foraminal stenosis as well.
I am currently having work done which is helping me keep my pelvis square
and imagine this is the best work to avoid it getting worse. I have hip pain,
and ankle pain, part of my feet are numb and my toes. My small toes are
worse, specially the right one. Pain down the left leg in front.  It is hard to
find any way to sleep.  Thank you

Answer
You may need a visit to an orthopedist.  Dysplastic growth only means it is not normal.  The osteophyte formation may be causing nerve root pressure leading to your pain.  An orthopedist, in conjunction with your chiropractor, should be able to alleviate the problem.