Question
The MRI results show"severe" compromise of the spinal chord in L4,and L5 and moderate compromise in L2 and L3...due, if I understand the dr., to a combination of factors. These include "bulging discs", and something wrong with a ligamentum and something wrong with facets, etc.  I have truly debilitating pain in legs and lower back and especially I cannot raise my legs hardly at all.
What measures can reduce inflammation in the spinal chord area and what are options in healthcare? I want to avoid surgery if I possibly can.
Thank you so very much.

Answer
From your description, I don't know that inflammation of the spinal cord is a factor in the situation.

Bulging discs usually indicate excessive tension in the muscles that span the vertebrae, pulling them closer together and compressing the discs, hence the bulge.

The ligamentum flavum is the ligament that runs the length of the front of the spinal column (not spinal cord).  What is wrong with yours?

Facet joint pain also occurs when the back muscles pull the vertebrae too closer together.

The best first option in most cases of back pain, particularly when nerve pain and loss of control extend to the legs, is to recover control of those low back muscles.  As the tension comes off, the vertebrae separate, discs and heal and the nerves to the legs are no longer trapped.

May I suggest you review the articles on back pain at somatics.com/page4.htm.  They explain more and present options.

with regard,
Lawrence Gold