Mri shows i have bulging discs c3-c7. mild-mod spinal canal stenosis. left foraminal stenosis, mild facet arthropothy on left at c4-c5, c6-c7. laymans terms? prognosis? how long to recover? experiencing cervical radiculopathy in left arm & hand. thx?

You have narrowing due to arthritis causing the lining of the joints to become overgrown around where the nerve roots to your arm on the left side come out. Bulging discs are likely also contributing to some mild to moderate narrowing around the spinal cord itself. This can cause pain and weakness in your left arm. C4-5 goes to the deltoid, and C6-7 to the triceps/back of the arm/middle finger

Dr Machanic and another doctor agreed

This likely can be handled conservatively, unless there is unremitting pain, progressive muscular weakness & atrophy, unstable spine, threat to spinal cord. Physical therapy using motorized cervical traction may work well. An epidural steroid at site of foraminal nerve compression could transiently ameliorate. Consult with a neurosurgeon is advised if not done previously.

Dr Rhoads and another doctor agreed