![]() ![]() Chronic overload from lifting heavy objects as seen in athletics and construction workers can lead to thoracic disc protrusions. Sudden force or impact such as a car accident or fall can cause a disc to bulge or even rupture (herniation). Trauma is another cause of bulging discs in the thoracic spine. The majority of the thoracic bulging discs occur in the lower thoracic spine between T8 and T12 (3). Other causes of degeneration include genetic predisposition, infections, repetitive motions and metabolic abnormalities. As we age the spine loses its water content, making them less flexible and prone to damage. ![]() ![]() The two most common causes are: Degenerationĭegeneration is a common cause of disc protrusions in the thoracic spine. Understanding the underlying cause of the condition is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. The most common include degeneration and trauma. There are several different causes of bulging discs in the thoracic spine. Thoracic disc protrusions are relatively uncommon compared to the lumbar and cervical spine. Finally, a bulging thoracic disc by irritating or compressing exiting nerve roots can alter the normal mechanics of the thoracic spine leading to muscle tension, spasms, and pain.Third, a bulging thoracic disc can cause inflammation in the surrounding tissue which can cause pain.Second, a bulging disc in the thoracic spine can compress or irritate nearby nerves leading to pain and other symptoms.First the outer annulus of the thoracic disc contains nerve fibers which when stretched or distended can cause pain (2).Numbness and tingling in upper or lower extremities.Ī bulging disc in the thoracic spine can cause pain in a number of different ways.Common symptoms of thoracic disc protrusions (1) include: The location and severity of the mid-back pain will depend upon the location of the disc protrusion, its size, and whether or not it is compressing or irritating exiting nerves or the spinal cord. A bulging disc in the thoracic spine can occur at any level. It is commonly referred to as the mid-back. The thoracic spine is that portion of the spine that resides below the neck and above the low back. Weakening or tears in the strong annulus fibrosus can occur allowing the nucleus to push outward resulting in a thoracic disc bulge. The annulus fibrosus surrounds the gelatinous center and provides support preventing the disc from bulging out or rupturing. The disc has two principal components: a soft gelatinous center that functions as a shock absorber and a thick supportive outer layer. The center is called the nucleus whereas the outer fibers are the annulus fibrosus. What Manifests During A Bulging Thoracic Disc? This can result in pressure on exiting nerves and or the spinal cord leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. A bulging disc in the thoracic spine is a serious medical condition in which the strong sidewall of the disc is weakened causing the disc to bulge outward. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |