The disc has lost water content. On MRI it looks darker than a young, healthy disc.
In more detail
- Discs are largely water in youth and lose it steadily with age. Desiccation is that loss showing up as reduced signal on the scan.
- It is one of the earliest and most universal age-related findings in the spine. By middle age most people have it at one or more levels.
- It is often reported alongside loss of disc height, which is the mechanical consequence of the same process.
What it means for you
By itself this is a description of an ageing disc, not a diagnosis and not an injury. It becomes relevant only when combined with findings that match your symptoms.
Remember the general rule. Findings like this one are common in people with no pain at all, and become steadily more common with age. A finding on a report is not a diagnosis until someone has matched it to your symptoms and your examination. See understanding your MRI report.
Bring your scan and report in and we will go through it with you. Call (314) 310-5577 or request an appointment.
Common questions
Can I rehydrate my discs?
No treatment, supplement or device reliably restores disc water content. What does help is keeping the spine moving and strong.
Is this why my back hurts?
Usually not on its own. Desiccation is present in a great many pain-free people.
Hurt in an accident? Start here.
You do not need a lawyer, a police report or a referral to be seen. Bring your symptoms and we will work out the rest.
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Same-day appointments are often available for new accident and injury patients.