These are photographs of an MRI screen, not the official MRI report, so it is not safe to make a definite diagnosis from them alone.

What appears visible: there are degenerative, age-related changes in the lower lumbar spine, including disc wear and likely narrowing around the lower levels. There may be narrowing of the spinal canal and/or nerve-exit spaces, especially in the lower lumbar region, which can cause severe back pain, pain into the buttock or legs, numbness, heaviness while walking, or weakness. However, the exact levels and severity must be confirmed by the radiologist’s written report and an in-person examination by a spine specialist.

For a 72-year-old with severe new or worsening pain, doctors must also exclude conditions such as an osteoporotic compression fracture, infection, cancer-related bone disease, and serious nerve compression. Age increases the relevance of these possibilities.

Go to the emergency department immediately if she has any of these:

These can signal cauda equina compression or another urgent spinal problem. Emergency imaging is indicated with acute neurologic deficit, bladder/bowel dysfunction, or saddle numbness. ROSEN's Emergency Medicine Concepts and Clinical Practice, p. 2359. The national CES pathway also advises immediate assessment for these symptoms.

Next practical step: obtain the written MRI report and arrange prompt review by an orthopedic spine surgeon, neurosurgeon, or neurologist. If you share the report text, I can explain it line by line in plain language.

Until assessed, avoid heavy lifting, bending/twisting, and forceful massage or spinal manipulation. Do not start strong pain medicines or steroid injections without her clinician reviewing kidney function, stomach-ulcer history, blood thinners, blood pressure, diabetes, and other medicines.