Q: I am 35 years old and have been experiencing backache for the last 10 days. Brief summary: I had irritation in my leg for quite some time and X-ray showed sacralisation of L5 vertebra. There is normal alignment and curvature of the spine, vertebral bodies are of normal height, inter-vertebral disc spaces are normal, transverse processes, spinous processes and pedicles are normal and bony spinal canal appears adequate in AP dimensions. No spondylosis or spondylolisthesis is noted. Paravertebral soft tissue shadows are normal. Impression: Sacralised L5. No other significant abnormality seen. What is the remedy for this and will it affect my normal life?

A:Sacralization of L5 is an incidental finding and may never affect your lifestyle. It is not uncommon and you need not worry about it. However, its always better to keep yourself fit and healthy by regular exercise as that will help prevent chronic backache. There is no treatment for sacralization. In case there is any neuropathy, then decompression can be done but this is usually not required.