HomeAnswersSpine healthback painI have a stinging back pain. Please review my MRI reports.

MRI says Posterocentral protrusion of L4-5 disc is abutting the L5 nerve root bilaterally What does this mean?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Atul Prakash

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Hemalatha

Published At December 1, 2016
Reviewed AtFebruary 6, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi,

I am a 32 year old male. My MRI report says: Posterocentral protrusion of L4-5 disc is abutting the L5 nerve root bilaterally. (In MRI it is black between L4-5 and kind of poking the nerve). My back pains occasionally and I think it is the nerve which is hurting, because the pain is like a sting. Currently I am taking rest and doctor said that he will check if physiotherapy can be started after a couple of weeks. I am afraid of the pain especially when it is near the neck or shoulders. I am able to walk and work. I am being treated by a spine specialist. Please let me know if I have to go to another doctor like a neurosurgeon and can I lead a normal life in future.

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am not sure of your neck symptoms as the neck has nothing to do with your lower back and from your description it is not clear if you have any leg symptoms or bladder symptoms.

However I need to see your MRI scan to be able to make a judgment on the further management.

  • The reason is, if the disc is large and compressing the nerve roots significantly then surgery would be the choice especially if you are being bothered by pain and numbness in your legs along with back spasm affecting your life.
  • Back pain is really not a disc issue, it is the result of pressure on the the anterior longitudinal ligaments which gets stretched and nerves are irritated. Later facet changes occur and back pain becomes prominent especially after long periods of sitting. Disc pressing on nerve roots will cause shooting electric current like pain going down below the knees and straining while coughing will aggravate the symptoms.
  • Treatment of a disc prolapse is to remain active within limits of pain rather than bed rest.
  • Pain settles down in 90% people just by the above method along with analgesics and some physiotherapy in about 6 weeks to 3 months time and they will lead a normal enough life.

Revert back with the reports to a spine health specialist online for further follow up -->https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/spine-health-specialist

 

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Atul Prakash
Dr. Atul Prakash

Orthopedician and Traumatology

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