Tests and Diagnosis

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Consider asking these questions during your consultation or after receiving test results:

1. "Is the stenosis on my MRI mild, moderate, or severe?"

   • This gives you an objective measure of the narrowing

2. "Do my symptoms match the findings on my imaging?"

   • This helps you understand whether the imaging findings explain your symptoms and whether the treatment plan makes sense

3. "At which level is the stenosis most severe (e.g., L3/4, L4/5)?"

   • This identifies the main problem area

4. "If there is stenosis at multiple levels, which one is the main source of my symptoms?"

   • In multi-level stenosis, this helps clarify the treatment target

5. "Based on my test results, how quickly might this progress?"

   • This helps you understand whether close monitoring or early treatment is needed

6. "Do I need any additional tests (contrast MRI, CT myelography, etc.)?"

   • This confirms whether the current diagnosis is complete or further testing is warranted

7. "Is the nerve compression reversible? How much recovery can I expect from treatment?"

   • This helps you set realistic expectations for your outcome

8. "If I want a second opinion, what records should I bring?"

   • Typically you will need a referral letter, MRI images, and blood test results

Tip: When your doctor explains your test results, refer to the "What Stenosis Looks Like on MRI" diagram on this page and ask, "Which of these pictures is closest to mine?" This can make the explanation much easier to follow.

This page provides medically accurate information, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment tailored to your individual situation.