I am 36/f, suffer from all around back pain with sciatica. Recently had spinal x-rays, they read as follows: CERVICAL SPINE: “There is straightening of the normal cervical lordosis. Mild disc space narrowing noted at C5-6 and C6-7. Prevertebral tissues are within normal limits. Oblique views demonstrate minimal foraminal narrowing on the left at C4-5 and C5-6 as well as bilaterally at C6-7. There is also right sided foraminal narrowing at C3-4.
LUMBOSACRAL SPINE: Scattered Schmorl’s nodes are noted. No gross compression fracture is identified. There is mild disc space narrowing noted at L5-S2 level. The SI joints and upper sacrum appear grossly normal. The pars interarticularis at L5 are suboptimally visualized.
THORACIC SPINE: There is slight leftward curvature of the upper thoracic spine. Scattered Schmorl’s nodes are noted. No compression fracture identified. The visualized pedicles and rib articulations appear grossly normal.
My questions:
1) Are there non surgery or surgery treatment options available to fix these issues?
2) Is this considered degenerative disc disease?
3) Am I doomed to a life of pain?
Thanks in advance,
Shana

Tags: back/sciatica, options, pain, possible, treatment