23/04/2026
📸 MRI Spotlight: Lumbar Spinal Stenosis at L3-4
This (enhanced) MRI of the lumbar spine clearly shows a disc herniation at the L3-4 level causing significant spinal canal stenosis.
Key Structures:
• T12–S1: The lower thoracic to sacral vertebrae
• L1–L5: Your lumbar (lower back) vertebrae — the most common site for back issues
• Spinal Canal: The bony tunnel protecting your spinal cord and nerves
• Intervertebral Disc: The cushion between vertebrae. At L3-4, the disc has herniated, pushing out and narrowing the canal.
What’s Happening?
The soft inner material of the L3-4 disc has bulged outward, compressing the spinal canal and potentially irritating nearby nerves. This can lead to lower back pain, leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness (sciatica).
Bottom Line:
A herniated disc at L3-4 is creating spinal stenosis and nerve compression. Many patients experience significant discomfort, but early diagnosis and proper treatment can make a big difference.
Have you ever dealt with disc herniation or spinal stenosis? Drop your experience below 👇