
Thoracic Radiculopathy
Thoracic Radiculopathy represents an uncommon spinal disorder that is frequently overlooked in the evaluation of spinal pain syndromes. Thoracic Radiculopathy is a result of a pinched nerve in the thoracic region of the spinal canal.
Causes of Thoracic Radiculopathy
Spinal nerve roots may be pinched under thoracic vertebrae because of disease, deformity, or injury. The spinal nerve roots are trapped by the vertebral bones in the thoracic region, which causes pain, swelling & inflammation.
Spinal conditions such as degenerative disc disease, herniated cervical discs, spinal stenosis, and arthritis, among others, may put pressure on the nerve roots. Radiculopathy from degenerative disc diseases or degenerative joint diseases is common in people older than 40 years. On the other hand, Radiculopathy from trauma is more common in younger people.
Symptoms of Thoracic Radiculopathy
The patients with thoracic Radiculopathy suffer from many uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Back pain.
- Loss of sensation.
- Loss of weight.
- Muscle weakness.
- Impaired normal reflexes.
- A numbing pins and needles sensation in the back.
Treatments for Thoracic Radiculopathy
Luckily, Thoracic Radiculopathy is easily treatable through conventional as well as surgical treatment methods. The first step in the treatment of Thoracic Radiculopathy is an accurate diagnosis.
Diagnostic Methods for Thoracic Radiculopathy
Generally, spine specialists use the following advanced methods to diagnose thoracic Radiculopathy:
- Patient observation.
- Obtaining Medical History.
- X-ray.
- CT scan.
- MRI.
Treatment of Thoracic Radiculopathy
Conservative Pain Management Treatment
Depending on your condition, the doctor will recommend the following therapies independently or in combination:
- Rest.
- Medications include non-steroidal drugs for managing pain and inflammation.
- Your specialist may recommend physical therapy to relieve pain, build strength & endurance, and prevent future injuries.
- Epidural steroid injections are the last non-surgical treatments. They are prescribed when nothing else is working.
Surgical Treatment for Thoracic Radiculopathy
In case conventional treatments fail to alleviate the symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy, spinal surgeons may recommend surgical intervention. The most common minimally invasive and open surgical procedures for thoracic Radiculopathy include:
- Endoscopic Decompression.
- Endoscopic Foraminotomy.
- Percutaneous Decompression.
- Laser Facet Arthrotomy.
- Selective Endoscopic Discectomy.
- Spinal Cord Stimulator.
Need help finding a doctor who gives you the best neuro spine care in New Jersey? Call us now and schedule your appointment today.Â
FAQ’S
What Are the Symptoms of Thoracic Spine Nerve Damage?
Some of the common symptoms associated with thoracic spine nerve damage include:
- Back pain.
- Loss of sensation.
- Loss of weight.
- Muscle weakness.
- Impaired normal reflexes.
- A numbing pins and needles sensation in the back.
How Do You Treat Thoracic Nerve Pain?
- Thoracic nerve pain is easily treatable through conventional as well as surgical treatment methods.
- Your specialist may recommend anti-inflammatory medications to treat your pain.
Can Radiculopathy Be Cured?
- The symptoms of Radiculopathy can be managed through both conventional and non-conventional methods.
- If non-surgical treatments are not proving beneficial, then minimally invasive procedures can be utilized.
How Should I Sleep With Thoracic Pain?
- Place a pillow below your legs to provide them with extra support.
- Place the pillow between your knees and raise it towards the chest position to relieve pain.