Thoracic
Definition :
Thoracic disks are usually very stable, which means herniations in this area are very rare. Herniation of the uppermost thoracic disks can mimic cervical disk herniations, while herniation of the other disks can mimic lumbar herniations. There are three types of thoracic herniations that may occur: A central disc protrusion may cause upper back pain as there is limited room around the spinal cord. A herniated disk in the thoracic spine may affect nerve functioning and can even lead to paralysis. A lateral disc herniation occurs when the disk herniates laterally, impinging on the root of the nerve. This may cause chest or abdominal pain. A centro-lateral disc herniation on the other hand may cause a combination of upper back and radiating pain. Symptoms of a herniation of thoracic disk may include:
- Chest or back pain
- Pain that is worsened by coughing or sneezing
- Arm pain
- Numbness or sensation changes
- Bowel and bladder changes
- Sexual dysfunction
- Discectomy: A discectomy is surgery done to remove a herniated disk from the spinal canal. When a disk herniation occurs, a fragment of the normal spinal disk is dislodged. This fragment may press against the spinal cord or the nerves that surround the spinal cord.
- Laminectomy: A surgical procedure in which the posterior arch of a vertebra is removed. Laminectomy is done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or on the nerve roots that emerge from the spinal canal. The procedure may be used to treat a slipped or herniated disk or to treat spinal stenosis.
Rehabilitation: Please visit http://vitaeequilbre.co.za/ for information on rehabilitative therapy.
Spinal Condition
Thoracic (Mid-Back)
Spinal · Mid-Back
The thoracic spine, in the mid-back, is more rigid and stable than the neck or lower back because it is supported by the rib cage — so thoracic disc and nerve problems are less common, but can still cause significant symptoms when they occur.
Common Symptoms
- Mid-back pain, sometimes wrapping around the chest wall
- Numbness or a band-like sensation around the torso
- Leg weakness or stiffness if the spinal cord itself is affected
- Balance or walking difficulties
- Pain worsened by coughing, sneezing or straining
Causes
Causes include thoracic disc herniation, degenerative changes, fractures (particularly after trauma or in osteoporotic bone), and, less commonly, spinal tumours affecting this region.
Diagnosis
MRI is the key investigation for assessing thoracic discs, the spinal cord and surrounding structures; CT and X-ray help assess bony detail and alignment, particularly after injury.
Seek prompt assessment if you notice: progressive leg weakness, a spreading band of numbness around the trunk, or new difficulty walking or with balance — these can indicate spinal cord compression.
Treatment Approach
Because the thoracic spine is well-supported by the rib cage, many problems here are managed conservatively. When surgery is required — for significant disc herniation, instability or cord compression — approaches may include a posterior, lateral or transthoracic route (often working alongside a thoracic surgeon) to safely access and decompress the spinal cord.
Frequently Asked Questions
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