I had a C-Spine MRI and got the films/radiology report but don't go back to the Neurosurgeon for another couple of weeks. In the meantime, does this report sound like I'm going to need surgery? Besides the herniated disc, I don't really understand it.

Posterior central disc herniation is seen at C5-C6 level causing compression of the thecal sac and mild compression of the cord is noted. Right foraminal stenosis is seen at C5-C6 level. Hypertrophic changes are seen at the apophyseal joint at C5-C6 and C6-C7 levels.

IMPRESSION: Central disc herniation is seen at C5-C6 level. Mild cord compression is seen at C5-C6 level. Right foraminal stenosis is noted at C5-C6 level

Yes it does sound like you might need surgery, unless you got hurt on the job and your on WC. Then you won't need surgery because of the stenosis. I had herniated discs in my neck with cord compression and 2 different nuerosurgeons said surgery but wc said it was not the discs causing the problem it was the stenosis. That was BS it was the cord compression. I ended up going thru my personal insurance and they approved the surgery right away. WC denied for 19 months. So if you are using your personal insurance I would be prepared for surgery. 1 of my neurosurgeons wanted to fuse my neck and the 2nd one said he didn't like to fuse 4 levels so he did a discotomy from the back and decompressed the nerves and spinal cord. and removed the part of the disc impinging on the spinal cord. Good luck.
Terri

No, it's not WC related. To tell you the truth, I don't remember injuring my neck. I've been treating for daily migraines (unsucessfully) for over two years now and finally went to a Neurosurgeon for a second opinion. Based on the headaches, neck aches, and dizziness, he sent me for a cervical spine MRI and this is where I stand.

Can the headaches/dizzy spells be related to the herniated disc?