Question
I recenetly had an MRI on my back after a fall in 2003 because I have been in pain ever since. My results said I have : 1-Mild disc degeneration at L3-L4. Small left foraminal disc osteophyte complex produces mild deformity of the exiting left L3 nerve root. 2-Mild disc degeneration at L4-L5. Right L4foraminal disc osteophyte complex produces mild deformity of the exiting right L4 nerve root. My question is what does this mean and could it have been caused by or aggravated by the fall? The doctor the insurance company sent me to didn't explain any of it to me..

Answer
John,
Typical, the insurance company always has the doctor that does the least amount of work with the cheapest rates.  So you end up with the same problem, maybe even worse, but the insurance company got to save some money so its all good.
The way to know for sure would be to have an MRI from before the injury compared with one from after the injury.  It is possible to have mild degeneration set in from an injury that was 5 or 6 years ago, but keep in mind that degeneration is something that accumulates over time.
I think you should call the doctor and ask him for an explanation over the phone if it would be easier for you both.  Or even get this email and ask him online.
I would have to see your films to have a better idea and I would want to compare something at least closer to the accident and something very recent if possible.
Yours in Best Health,
Dr Arnone
Upper Cervical Specific Doctor
"Brainstem Specialist"
Arnone Clinic
711 Old Ballas Road Suite 104
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
314 995 5719
[email protected]
www.AchieveSuperHealth.com