Question
I just had a MRI done and the doctor said I have the following issues. Is there any other alternatives to surgery? I've been in a lot of pain for 7 yrs but I don't want to have surgery.

Thanks

L2/L3 disc desiccation w/ mild diffuse disc bulge and mild bilateral facet arthropathy.

L3/L4 same as above w/ a central and L paracentral disc herniation of the protrusion type that compresses the thecal sac. Moderate bilateral facet arthropathy.

L4/L5 disc desiccation w/ minimal annular disc bulge

L5/S1 central, right paracentral and foraminal disc protrusion that touches the right L5 nerve root as it exites the neural foramen.

Answer
Dear Patience,

Disc bulges typically come from tight spinal muscles compressing vertebrae together.

In many cases, symptoms can be relieved by freeing those muscles.

May I direct you to my article on whiplash injuries, which discusses the condition and what can be done, at somatics.com/whiplash.htm.

with regard,
Lawrence Gold