Not So Spineless

Isn't it funny how when questions get answered, there seem to be more questions? I had my MRI last Sunday(yes, you read that correctly) and got the results back about an hour later. Technology can be a wonderful thing, sometimes. Long story short, I'm the lucky owner of broad-based bulging discs on five cervical levels and significant canal stenoses. Canal Stenosis is just a fancy way of saying my spinal cord is being compressed. Let's take a look:

Sorry, but my spinal cord is not Olaf. It does not like warm hugs! ⛄ 

It's very clear where my spinal canal has narrowed. With the help of 20 seasons of Grey's Anatomy and Google, I'm basically a doctor, right? Totally kidding! But Google can be a useful tool for those of us who can digest necessary information and toss the extra away(at least for the time being). This is a pretty cool illustration of what I've got going on if you need a better visual. 

But now I'm left with more questions. It's pretty obvious why my arms and hands have been going numb, but how did I get to this point? Apparently, you can be born with an already narrow canal which essentially sets you up for the condition. So has this been brewing all along, or is something else going on? I don't have any of the risk factors for stenosis: age(typically over 50), male sex, or ethnicity. I also don't experience the searing pain most people with it describe. Or maybe what I've thought were normal aches and pains aren't quite so normal? Obviously, the bulging discs are a cause, but how long have those been that way, and what caused them? 

Soooo, now I found myself with a referral to neurosurgery. I haven't made the appointment yet but hope to tomorrow. When I asked my PCM why he went straight to neurosurgery, he answered that he believed the degree of stenoses was past the point of physical therapy. Yes, I can maintain my current state but it's not reversible. 

Anyway, that's where things are at. I'm pretty horrified at the thought of spinal surgery but maybe some alternatives haven't been brought up yet. In the meantime, I will stay in the realm of concern and not panic. What will be, will be. On another note...look at that adorable little cerebellum. <3