So I got my MRI results in for my middle back (T-Spine) and my neck (C-Spine). It didn’t come back with positive remarks. :/
So here’s what it says for my C-Spine:
Comments: There is slight reversal of the normal cervical lordosis. The vertebral bodies are normally aligned (I guess that’s good atleast lol). They are all of normal stature and signal. The invertebral discs are fairly well maintained.
There is noted to be mild marginal osteophytosis with mild left foraminal stenosis at C4-5 and right foraminal stenosis at C5-6 and C6-7. There is no focal disc herniation or cord compression. Cervical cord signal is unremarkable.
There is notced to be cerebellar tonsil ectopia consistent with Arnold Chiari I malformation.
Well those do not sound good.
So here’s what osteophytosis is:
“Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are bony projections that form along joints. Bone spurs form due to the increase in a damaged joint’s surface area. This is most commonly from the onset of arthritis. Bone spurs usually limit joint movement and typically cause pain.“
Arthritis you say? Great.
Arnold-Chiari I malformation:
“Arnold-Chiari malformation, sometimes referred to as Chiari II malformation[1] or ACM, is a malformation of the brain. It consists of a downward displacement of the cerebellar tonsils and the medulla[2] through the foramen magnum, sometimes causing hydrocephalus as a result of obstruction of CSF outflow.“
Right. So apparently (this is what the radiologist told me), this is a small part of the lower brain that protrudes to the upper neck and the neck puts pressure on it.
“Chiari is often associated with major headaches, sometimes mistaken for migraines. Chiari headaches usually include intense throbbing in the back of the head. Chiari also includes extreme muscle soreness and low energy levels.“
That certaintly explains my REALLY bad headaches which I thought were migraines; it also explains my low energy levels.
And so far the only treatment that I have come across for the Arnold-Chiari, is surgery. Which I REALLY do not want. That will definitely be my last resort.
Hopefully all goes well for me and I will soon be getting ready to enlist in the Marines sometime early next year. However, everytime I mention joining the military lately, something happens to my back or neck. Don’t know what’s next to go… But all of these problems have been recent, when I was more serious about joining the military. Nice coincidence right?
2008-07-20 @ 02:51:27
