Question
I was discharged from the military medically for being diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis. Since I was discharged the VA is telling me that I do not have this condition. I recently received a copy of my "MRI of the Lumbar Spine without Contrast" I am not a doctor so I do not fully understand what is written here, but would love if you can explain to me if this is saying I have stenosis or not. The document reads:

"Sagittal and axial T1 and T2 weighted pulse sequences were preformed with the patient weightbearing in the Fonar open MRI unit. History of low back pain radiating to the lower extremities.

"There is thoracolumbar scoliosis. I see no evidence of compression on fractures nor subluxations nor is there evidence of distal spinal cord lesions. The marrow signal intensity is within normal limits.

"L1-2: Within normal limits.

"L2-3: Within normal limits.

"L3-4: Within normal limits.

"L4-5: Broad central and paracentral right disc protrusion extending inferiorly to the disc space mildly effaces the thecal sac and compromises the right lateral recess. No foramen or canal stenosis. Mild facet arthropathy.

"L5-S1: Mild circumferential disc bulging and left facet arthropathy. The canal and foramen are patent.

"Visualized paravertebral soft tissues and SI joints are within normal limits.

"IMPRESSION:

"L4-5 DISC PROTRUSION GREATER TO THE RIGHT WITH LATERAL RECESS NARROWING."

Thank you ahead of time for taking the time to answer my question I really appreciate it, and would love to understand what exactly is going on with my back, and get the help needed once I understand the diagnosis.  

Answer
Haskell,
 What this MRI report says is that your L1-3 vertebraes are good, but at L4-5 you have a disc herniation or protrusion to the right that is narrowing the hole in which the nerve exits.  At L5-S1 you have a little disc bulging and some degeneration or wear and tear at your left facet joint.  The facet joint is one of the joints of the lumbar spine responsible for helping you bend forward and backward, rotate side to side and to sidebend.  Nowhere does it mention spinal stenosis.  It just says you have some disc herniations.  It does not give specific millimeters of herniation to make a determination of whether you are a surgical candidate or not.  It also mentions you have scolosis, but no angle has been indicated.  Since you do have some disc issues, it would be best to get some physical therapy to learn what positions are good for you and which ones are ones to avoid.  FYI- try and avoid anything that makes you bend forward and twist for this is the worst and most vulnerable position for the spine, especially when you have a disc herniation.  Good luck.

Martin