MRI mumbo jumbo

Doc's write up of my problem: "Low back and left anterior thigh weakness with left hip flexor and knee extensor weakness. Loss of left knee patellar reflex and decreased sensation on the left at L3-4."

MRI Results (just part of them):

"There is minor disk desiccation. Mild to moderate disk space narrowing at L3-4. Minimal retrolisthesis of L5 on S1. Vertebral marrow signal is grossly unremarkable. Small Schmorl's nodes at L2 and L3."
"L4-5: Minimal disk bulging with minor bilateral neural foraminal
narrowing."

"1. Far left lateral superiorly extending disk protrusion at L3-4 contacting the left exiting L3 nerve.
2. Indistinct tissue in the left lateral recess extending inferiorly from L3-4, probably extruded or free disk material and in position to contact the budding left L4 nerve roots.
3. Relatively mild lumbar spondylosis at the remaining levels. "

Basically, this seems to say I got disc tissue pressing on nerves and it hurts.


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A friend brought by groceries for me today and remarked that I seem to be getting around better. I guess it's true - I can walk better and be upright or seated longer. No opiates required during day or at night. No ibuprofen even. I still can't stand up straight, nor am I quite ready to fully trust my left leg, but it's progress. My pain level stays the same, because I just end up trying to do more normal activities. Not that I'm all that close yet.

Then again, who's normal?