Hi,
Can anyone tell me what this might mean: "Transitional anatomy with partial lumbarization of the S1 segment" (from lumbar xray) and "There is transitional-type anatomy" (from sacrum & coccyx xray).

I know transitional means change but what is changing and why? I have a referral to see an orthopedic dr. but since I have HMO, I will have to wait at least a week for the appt. In the meantime, I am curious.

My tailbone sticks out & is pretty large and it's painful for me to lay on hard surfaces. In the past, a chiropractor did xrays and said something about my tailbone and a disc (I think) trying to be one??? I am going to pick up those xrays to bring to the orthopedic as well. When I had an MRI about 2 yrs. ago, it didn't say anything about transitional; it only showed I had a mild bulging disc @ L5-S1...could this mean it's getting worse?

My pain consists of my right side between hip bone & rib (but could also be my interstitial cystitis), my right leg, knee, hip and tailbone. I want to know if there could be nerve problems.

I will so appreciate anyones thoughts or advice on this matter. I've tried typing in "transitional" on the internet and nothing really comes up. Can anyone out there help?

Thanks alot, ndalife

Hi

I have the same thing!
I had a left sided prolapsed disc at L5 which resolved itself after i slipped on the stairs but am left with a back pain of L3 - S1 with a transitional lumbarisation of S1.
I am under the impression that 'transitional' means moving thats problably why i get pain in both buttocks an the whole of my lower back.

I am sorry i carnt help further!:)

Hi,
I'm sure not a radiologist BUT I'm prety sure that 'transistional lumbarization' is referring to the anatomy of that particular vertabrae.......It is part of the scacrum but appears to be transistional in that it has attributes of the lumbar vertabrae................A whole lot of people have an extra lumbar TYPE vertabrae either at the end of the thoracic spine or beginning of the sacrum with no resulting problems.

Hi guys, "transitional lumbarization of the S1" is a normal variant of the human anatomy. Some people have an extra disc at the first sacral segment. The sacrum has five segments, but do not usually have discs. So, occasionally,one may have a full or partial disc at the first sacral segment. It can produce discomfort especially during periods of excessive physical activity, i.e. sports, heavy manual work, prolonged bending etc.Ice, muscle therapy, Chiropractic and rest, usually work. It should not be a frequent, daily problem. If it is, look for possibly another cause.
I hope this helps:)