Anderson, IN
A 37-year-old female asked:
37yo f- low back pain, l sciatica, low back hurts to press on it. gp sent for x-ray-shows lumbar facet degenerative change, mild facet hypertrophy, mild levoscoliosis, and probably mild disc narrowing at l5-s1. is this anything to worry about?
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. John Berrymananswered
Obstetrics and Gynecology 56 years experience
Details provided in your question are common with trauma or athletic injuries which may predispose to favoring abnormal postural positions to avoid pain, causing bone growths which make some movements painful. See an orthopedic surgeon for analysis of the imaging studies by your GP.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Answered Nov 22, 2021
Dr. Bennett Machanicanswered
Neurology 54 years experience
A standard X-ray will be insufficient to determine the extent of back pathology, as a nerve root compression causing "L sciatica" will be missed, and an MRI would be far better. Suggest you see a physiatrist, or an osteopathic specialist. Physical therapy may well be helpful. Key is to identify the "pain generator", and treat this appropriately.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Reviewed Nov 28, 2021
Dr. Matthew Bakeranswered
Orthopedic Surgery 14 years experience
You can start with physical therapy for core strengthening and posture. If there is numbness down the leg or issues using the bathroom seek urgent evaluation
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Answered Nov 24, 2021
Last updated Apr 14, 2022
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