Mean intervertebral disc spaces refer to the average height or distance between adjacent vertebrae in the spine, indicating the health and integrity of the intervertebral discs. When these spaces are preserved, it suggests that the discs are maintaining their normal structure and hydration, which is essential for proper spinal function and mobility. Preservation of these spaces can also indicate a lower risk of degenerative disc disease or other spinal disorders. Regular monitoring through imaging can help assess the condition of these disc spaces over time.
Your intervertebral disks have not gotten smaller.
If a joint space is preserved, it means the space is normal and not showing signs of arthritis. In your case, the joint spaces in the knee were found to be normal.
Disc desiccation happens when fluid is lost from the intervertebral discs of the spine. Disc dessication leads to acute back pain, due to excessive wear on the vertebrae (small bones which make up the spine) and the discs (located between the vertebrae) themselves.
Loss of disc signal is something commonly seen on an MRI report. It means that there has been some degeneration of the disc.
Intervertebral disc disorders; postlaminectomy syndrome; lumbar region (Spinal disorder due to spinal laminectomy surgery; lumbar region)
When joint spaces are preserved, it means that the space between the bones in a joint remains normal and unobstructed, indicating no significant degeneration or damage to the cartilage or surrounding structures. This is often seen in imaging studies, such as X-rays, and suggests that the joint is functioning well and that there is no evidence of conditions like arthritis or joint disease. Preserved joint spaces are typically a positive sign, indicating good joint health.
The term L2-L3 disc refers to the intervertebral disc located between the second and third lumbar vertebrae in the lower back. This disc plays a crucial role in providing cushioning and flexibility to the spine, allowing for movement and shock absorption. Issues with the L2-L3 disc, such as herniation or degeneration, can lead to pain and discomfort, potentially affecting mobility and nerve function in the lower body.
This is the official pathology report description of mild intervertebral disc degeneration. The "mild dessication" means the disc appears slightly drier than normal, which can be related to a mild breakdown in the squishy cushion portion of the disc. The "mild loss of disc height" simply means the disc is not as tall as it used to be, again probably a result of mild degeneration. Disc degeneration is a normal artefact of aging - everyone's intervertebral discs will go through some degree of degeneration if they live long enough. However, disc degeration is considered to be the first step towards a herniated or ruptured disc, which can cause severe back pain and require surgery to correct. If I were in your shoes and had been given this information by a doctor, I would ask what it means in practical terms. What are my risks of a herniated disc in the next five years? Will this impact nerve function? What are signs and symptoms that this disc is deteriorating? Is there anything I need to do about this - change posture, wear a brace, etc?
Disc desiccation at the T12-L1 level indicates that the intervertebral disc between the twelfth thoracic vertebra and the first lumbar vertebra has lost hydration and elasticity, which is often a sign of degenerative changes. This condition can lead to decreased disc height and may contribute to back pain or reduced mobility. It may also increase the risk of further disc degeneration or herniation. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pain management, or lifestyle modifications.
Desiccation of the disc at the L4-L5 level refers to a loss of hydration and elasticity in the intervertebral disc, which can lead to reduced disc height and potential degeneration. A central fissure indicates a tear or crack in the disc's inner structure, often associated with increased stress or injury. This condition can result in pain, limited mobility, and may increase the risk of herniation or other complications affecting the surrounding nerves. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and management.
the doctor say i have a minimal annular bulge at c-3-4 what does this mean?
I will break this down by individual word, then build it back up to the full diagnosis. Posterior is a directional term, meaning "towards the back". Central means in the middle of. Annular is the fancy term for ring, generally referring to the tough fibrous capsule in an intervertebral disc. A tear is an abnormal separation of a normally intact tissue. "Lumbar five sacral one" is often written L5/S1 and refers to the intervertebral disc space between the last lower back vertebra and the first fused vertebra of the hip bone assembly. Putting this back together, you have a ripped portion of the tough capsule of your intervertebral disc at the base of your spine, specifically through the portion of the ring that is closest to the skin along your backbone. This could be a concern, as a tear in the ring can predispose you to have a "slipped disc" or "herniated disc" at this location - your doctor can tell you more about what the risks are and what preventive measures you can take.