Hi..I had an mri for a back injury..it said i have at L5~~~S1,mild broad based posterior disk protrusion abuts the ventral surface of thecal sac without canal stenosis..with left tangential L5nerve root abutment..what does this mean???..im 46   5ft 4 and 9st 6lbs..
I read your query and I understand your concern. That report suggest a disc disease, which for the moment looks not to cause any narrowing of the spinal canal and while close to the L5 nerve root causes no compression. So for the moment no surgery is indicated and should be continued with conservative management meaning physiotherapy and painkillers. Of course the severity of your symptoms should also be taken into consideration, but generally speaking from the report your current pain should improve gradually. Of course since there is some degree of disc protrusion, mild for now, if that progresses in the future might change aggravate the symptoms and change management. Physical therapy is the best way to lower the risk for that. I hope things work out for the best.