Here are another couple slices of my flexion extension MRI. I want to point out that these are weight bearing since I was sitting. The picture on the right is in a neutral position.
I also want to point out that I could not extend any more due to pain. If I would have been able to, I am sure that the herniations would have appeared larger. I am going to bold this because I think it is very important.
This just proves that when you are in pain your body is telling you that there is something wrong. I think that in some situations, decreasing the pain without fixing the problem puts you at further risk of more injury.
Also the two sets of pictures at the beginning of the thread are lay down traditional MRI's. It does not take an expert to see what traditional MRI's can miss
and even weight bearing MRI's without flexion.
Notice the difference in size of the herniation at T1-T2 between the extension position on the left and the neutral position on the right. Also note that the herniation at T3-4 appears smaller on the extension (left) MRI. When I try to alleviate the pain in my upper back I extend my neck like this, which in turn hurts my lower neck. I can't believe I have visual proof of my pain and I still get blown off. Both of these are wieght bearing.
