Review Question - QID 7972

A 40-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with a history of new-onset right lower extremity weakness resulting in frequent falls. She reports that a few weeks prior to the onset of the lower extremity symptoms, she experienced an episode of acute back pain, which has since resolved. Examination reveals 1-2/5 strength in the right hip flexors, abductors, and quadriceps. There is 0-1/5 strength noted in the right ankle plantar and dorsiflexors. Deep tendon reflexes are hyperactive in the lower extremities and there is clonus on dorsiflexion of the right ankle. The patient has a positive Babinski sign on the right side. The patient denies neck or arm symptoms, and the upper extremity neurologic examination is within normal limits. Figures 59a and 59b show the MRI scans of the patient's cervical and lumbar spine. What is the next most appropriate step in management?