Question
Iam 31 yrs of age and have had severe back pain which includes my legs and neck hurting. My pain is gwtting worse and my headaches. Can you explain what this mri means on my back please?

Findings: The conus terminates at L1-L2 and L2 level grossly normal Disc desication is noted at L4-L5 and L5-S-1. There is minimal retrolisthesis of L5 with respect to S1.
L1-L2 mild facet arthrosis is noted with very minimal disc buldging.
The prosterior disc contours are normal at L2- L3 and L3-L. Bilateral facet arthrosis is noted at these levels.
L4-L5 there is mild diffuse disc bulging with small central protusion. Bilateral facet arthrosis is noted. There is no central canal narrowing. There is no significant foraminal narrowing.
L5-S1 there is mild disc bulging diffusely. There is a small to moderate broad-based left paracentral protusion. There is a small amount of herniated/extruded disc material and left paracentral location. This extends downward into the superior aspect of the left nerve root. Minimal right and mild to moderate left foraminal narrowing is noted.

i stay in pain. Doctors just say I will not get any better and it will get worse and their is nothing they can do.I have went to therpy they said they couldnt do nothing with me. Confused and frustated. What all is really wrong with me?  

Answer
Kristie,

     I am sorry you are in so much pain.  In essence, your MRI states you have small amounts of disc bulging at L1-L2, L4-5 and at L5-S1.  Your L5-S1 disc has bulging , is putting pressure on the nerve root on the left and the hole in which the nerve exits has become narrowed.
    When you say you stay in pain, how do you describe your pain?  Is it on both sides of your body or only on one side?  I know what your MRI reads now, but I would like to know if you complaints actually match the MRI.  What I mean by that is each nerve corresponds with a certain area of the body, so if you are having pain in the lower part of your back, but not down into your legs, it is probably not due to a nerve root irritation.  When you went to physical therapy did they work on any strengthening, stretching, postures, sleeping positions, etc.  
    Also have you had any blood work done lately?  Is there any rheumatoid arthritis in your family?  How often do you get headaches?  Has your vision changed in the last 6 months?  Do you read in bed or watch TV in bed?
    I know I asked you a lot of questions but they will help me to understand your situation better so I can give you the best answer.