01/28/2022
A systematic review in 2015 looked at
31 studies on disc herniations.
• The rate of spontaneous regression was found to be 96% for disc sequestration, 70% for disc extrusion, 41% for disc protrusion, and 13% for disc bulging.
•Moreover, regression of the disc seen via MRI is not
always necessary in order to achieve improved or completely resolved symptoms.
•Studies on pain-free individuals routinely show that disc injuries are oftentimes present in asymptomatic individuals.
scans are very sensitive. They create an extremely detailed image of your spine. The irregularities they find are not always problematic.
OK- so when do you get an MRI? And what do you make of it? You get an MRI for a few reasons:
•Weakness, changes in sensation that last more than a few weeks
•Suspected nerve related pain that does not resolve or improve after a few weeks
• 3-6 weeks of conservative treatment that does not
improve symptoms & Given the high rate of false positives, you do not jump to a more invasive treatment the day after your MRI. You still likely
wait and see. A more expedient course of treatment should proceed if symptoms are severe, or sensation and/or strength loss is profound.