Once we have reached at a certain age we start to come across various issues related to our spine. One such common issue that occurs is the thoracic herniated disc. Not only old age people but also the young generation is facing disc issues. If you are someone who is also affected by disc then you must be wondering about thoracic herniated disc treatment. Well, you don’t have to be worried about anything because in this guide we are going to give you in-depth information regarding the symptoms as well as treatments. So, ensure to read thoroughly.
Some of the thoracic herniated disc treatments are pain management, physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, spinal fusion, discectomy, acupuncture, massage therapy, etc. To know about these treatment methods in detail read ahead.
Thoracic Herniated Disc Symptoms
Well, the symptoms of a thoracic herniated disc are dependent on how severe the herniation is and where the herniation is occurring. Also, the symptoms depend on how much an individual tolerates the pain and nerve sensitivity. The pain occurring in the upper or middle back region is a prominent symptom of a thoracic herniated disc.
This pain may be dull or it can be sharp. However, the pain may increase while moving, coughing, sneezing, or even bending. This pain may radiate to the chest or abdomen which might cause issues in the heart. This radiating pain will create confusion and make it hard to find the cause and source of the pain. Moreover, if the herniation is severe then it will affect your legs which will create difficulty in walking or even balancing.
Also, it is said that a thoracic herniated disc is quite rare as compared to a cervical or lumbar herniated disc. Moreover, many thoracic herniated disc individuals won’t face any symptoms only if the herniation is small or the nearby nerves or spinal cord nerves are not compressed. However, if you are facing any symptoms then make sure to coordinate with a health care professional and do the needful.
Thoracic Herniated Disc Treatment
The thoracic herniated disc treatment includes a combination of conservative measures however, in some cases surgical intervention is also needed. Below we are going to highlight thoracic herniated disc treatment. Make sure to read it carefully.
Conservatives Measures:
1. Pain Management
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen will help you to cure moderate or mild disc pain. However, in severe cases, you need to look out for prescribed medications.
2. Physical Therapy
For physical therapy, you need a physical therapist who will help you with your customized exercises that will help in strengthening the spine muscles, and in improving your flexibility, as well as your posture. Physical therapy also includes cold baths, ultrasounds, as well as electrical stimulation.
3. Epidural Steroid Injections
You can also inject corticosteroid injections around your spine area that will help you in relieving the pain and it will also help you with inflammation. However, these epidural steroid injections are used for the short term and if necessary then it may be repeated after a while.
Surgical Intervention:
1. Discectomy
If the pain is not reliving even after trying the conservative measures or if the pain is severe then surgery is the only way out. In the process of discectomy, the herniation portion is removed which helps to release pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
2. Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is considered if there are multiple discs are involved or if the spine is unstable. In this type of surgery, two or more vertebrae are fused together which will help to stabilize the spinal cord.
3. Laminectomy
A laminectomy is performed when there is a compression in the spinal cord. The process of laminectomy is performed to remove a portion of the lamina that will help to create extra space for the spinal cord.
Other Therapies:
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice in which thin needles are inserted to a specific point of the body. The acupuncture is also helpful for thoracic herniated disc treatment.
2. Massage Therapy
Last on the list is massage therapy. The massage therapy will help you to relax the tight muscles. This therapy will help you to improve circulation, and help you in relieving pain associated with the thoracic herniated disc.
Wrapping Up!
Now we have come to the end of the discussion related to thoracic herniated disc treatment. We firmly believe that your queries related to the thoracic herniated disc have been resolved. However, the treatment of thoracic herniated disc depends on the individual’s health and preference. You can work with your healthcare professionals to create a plan that will address your plans and goals. For more such articles related to health, fitness, and mental health make sure to come back to healthfittalks.
Thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions-
Q1. Is it possible for thoracic herniated discs to heal?
Ans. In most of the cases, thoracic herniated discs are not able to heal on their own without surgery.
Q2. What are some home remedies to cure thoracic herniated discs?
Ans. Some of the home remedies to cure thoracic herniated discs are cold compress, heat therapy or heat pads, and aerobic exercise like walking, biking can also help.