What Does A Bulging Disc Causing Neural Foraminal Compromise Indicate?

Posted on Tue, 3 Oct 2017

Question: Hello my MRI says I've got a bulging disc L5S1 and is causing a moderate degree of neuroforaminal compromise worse on left side with possible impingment of both exiting L5 nerve roots. Could anyone please explain this report thank you.

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Neuroforaminal compromise

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I would try to explain the terms here.
foraminal means that it is a condition affects the foramina, which are open passages on either side of each vertebra(bones of spine). These passages provide a space through which spinal nerve roots exit the spinal column and join the complex network of nerves that serves the entire body. So “narrowing” means that these nerve passages have become smaller. So they irritate the nerves causing tingling, numbness, pain and weakness. In your case the disc bulge is the cause of the foramen narrowing at the level of L5/S1.
Initially you can be tried on conservative treatment like resting with or without physio, alternative compresssion of cold and hot water, gentle stretching and yoga practice, some prescription drugs (Gabapentin) to alleviate the pain. You are already put on some.

If these cannot help then they can go in for surgery.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (19 minutes later)

Thank you for replying you are very kind.

Janet B UK

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (4 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Please close and rate the answer

Detailed Answer:
I am glad you liked my answer please close this discussion and rate it if you do not have any more queries.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (29 minutes later)

Can I also ask I had an MRI last year which showed bulging disc L5S1 and a synovial cyst which seems to have disappeared from the MRI this year. Do synovial cysts disappear? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes rarely

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Sorry for delay.
A cyst is a communication between two channels so it can be temporary as well. Usually it cannot disappear but rarely it does.

Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (4 minutes later)

can i also ask if u have lumbar foraminal compromise with impingment of both exiting L5 nerve roots can it also affect your walking and balance? You mentioned surgery yesterday was a possibility can I ask do you know what type of surgery if possible? Thank you

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (6 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes

Detailed Answer:
Yes walking and balance can be affected with the pain as well of disease process.
The type of surgery can be told by the spine surgeon after examination.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (2 minutes later)

Thank you very much for answering

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (24 hours later)

Brief Answer:
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Detailed Answer:
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Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar