Expert: Dr. Eric Starbuck - 1/26/2007

Question
I have been having neck pain that continues to get worse.  I recently had an MRI to find out what is wrong.  I am waiting to see the neurologist, but wanted to get an idea what the MRI means.
It reads the following:
 Vertebral body alignment is anatomic, but the majority of the cervical adn upper thoracic discs show dehydration and there are multiple annular tears C2-3 through C6-7 as seen on the gradient echo T2 sagittal but without pathologic marrow signal alteration or occult bone injury.  There are normal flow voids to the vertebral arteries.  

C6-7 shows central posterolateral left-sided marginal osteophytic spur with combined bulge partially obliterating the CSF space without cord impingment.  Uncinate spur results in moderate left-sided foraminal stenosis, moderate to severe on the right.

C5-6 There is also moderate to severe left-sided foraminal stenosis. Tehr is left sided facet hypertrophy.


....  multiple annular tears and at C6-7 there is combined posterolateral left-sided disc bulge with marginal oseophytic spur partially obliterating the CSF space anterally with moderate left-sided foraminal stenosis.


Where should I go from here.  

Answer
In general it is saying you have some disc bulges that are not quite touching the spinal cord.  The foraminal stenosis is narrowing of the hole where the nerve exits the spinal cord and to the different areas of the body.  The levels where that is happening (C5-6/6-7) could lead to, if you don't already have symptoms of, hand tingling/numbness similar to carpal tunnel symptoms.  I would see what the neurologist suggests, but if says there is nothing you can do right now, I strongly suggest chiropractic care.  No surgery involve, some possible relief of the disc bulges (not all have relief, but most do).  I treat many people with similar symptoms and diagnosis with excellent outcomes.  If you are interested in chiropractic treatment, go to www.sorsi.com to locate a doctor near you.  I am a member of this group and I would trust any one of the doctors there with my own family.  We use low force (not a lot of "popping and cracking") that  is wonderful for disc problems.  I am located in Minnesota in the Twin Cities and would be more than happy to see you in my office.  If you have any other questions or concerns, or need clarification of what the neurologist discusses with you, please email me.

Dr Starbuck