Question
Dr Starbuck - I was hoping you might be able to help me interpret an MRI result I recently received?  A quick background: I have been off work for the past 8 months while under-going much diagnostic testing for extreme pain I have been experiencing.  I have finally been "diagnosed" with idiopathic small fiber polyneuropathy (I have pain throughout my body).  The past months have been a trial but I am working hard to stay positive and focus on exercise, positive thinking, and on the small daily accomplishments despite the often excruciating pain.  I was sent for the MRIs as a precursor to a possible procedure to reduce my daily pain.  The MRI findings were:

1. Right asymmetric disc bulge at T3-T4 and mild diffuse disc bulge at T6-T7 and T7-T8.
2. Mild diffuse disc bulge at L4-L5 and left asymmetric disc bulge at L5-S1 with posterior annular tear.
3. Mild bilateral facet arthropathy at L5-S1.

I have spoken with my GP who has told me these findings are relatively normal and nothing to worry about.  But given the past 8 months I have to say I've become a bit of a hypochondriac.  Should I see a specialist about these results?  Are they anything to worry about?  Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you in advance.

Answer
I can not give you specific answers, there is some possibility that the pain is coming from these MRI findings.  There are a lot of nerves that could have been irritated.  There could be some other underlying issues though.  I am a member of a group of chiropractors located all over the U.S. that treat cranial issues.  Not so much mental-cranial, but actually assisting the skull in its normal movements, it is difficult to explain in this format, it is much easier to describe in person.  The whole body is controlled by the brain and the nerves that exit, and when the skull is not moving properly the brain can not supply the nerves properly.  Go to www.sorsi.com to locate a doctor near you.  I am located in St. Paul, Minnesota and would be more than happy to talk with you.  If you have any other questions or concerns please email me.

Dr. Starbuck