X-Ray Results Message for Patient
Your x-ray shows mild early degenerative disc changes at L2-L3 - a common finding that often doesn't cause pain. Rest, gentle exercise, and over-the-counter pain relievers typically help.
This finding represents mild degenerative disc disease, which is characterized by minimal disc height loss at L2-L3 with minimal retrolisthesis (slight backward slippage of one vertebra) and tiny bone spurs 1.
For nonspecific low back pain like yours, guidelines recommend:
- Avoiding unnecessary imaging for uncomplicated back pain 2
- Starting with conservative treatment approaches before considering more invasive options
- Using NSAIDs for pain relief, which provide small to moderate improvement compared to placebo 2
Degenerative disc disease is a normal part of aging and often doesn't correlate with pain severity 3, 4. Many people with similar x-ray findings have no symptoms at all.
Your mild findings don't suggest any serious underlying condition requiring urgent intervention. The American College of Physicians recommends conservative management for nonspecific low back pain, including:
- Brief rest if needed
- Maintaining normal activities as tolerated
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Physical therapy with focus on active exercises rather than passive treatments 2
If symptoms persist beyond 4-6 weeks despite these measures, follow up with your healthcare provider for reassessment.