Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 9/2/2008

Question
my uncle has been suffering from backpain along with numbness in feet, he has been advised for MR SCAN.
scan reports are as follows:posterior disc extrusion with inferior migration at L4-L5 levels causing mild thecal sac compression.
large sequestrated migrated fragment from the extruded L4-L5 disc, located opposite the lower body of L5 vertebra causing gross thecal sac compression.
broad based right paracentel disc extrusion at L5-s level causing mild thecal sac compression and impingement on the right sided traversing s1 nerve root.is it necessary to undergo surgery for him or can the problem be cured by physiotherapy.  

Answer
Hi and thanks for the question. First of all I will always recommended that he try Physical therapy or some other type of conserative measure before considering surgery.
Has he seen a specialist lately in regards to that question? Generally most want to get into the back surgically though it can be risky.
It depends in the discomfort as well. If it where my back I would try PT first and follow any advice they give me, if this is not producing results then I will consider surgery.
With the back surgery either goes real well or it can cause further problems. get a couple of different opinions as well.

Richard Haynes
www.totaljointfitness.com
www.richardhaynes.com