Conditions & Diagnoses: A-Z

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Thoracic Disc Degeneration

Definition:
A retrograde pathological change in the thoracic disc, in consequence of which their functions are often impaired or destroyed; sometimes reversible; in the early stages, necrosis results.
Symptoms:
  • Upper or mid back pain
  • Loss of ROM in the thoracic spine
  • Numbness and tingling in the lower extremity
  • Pain upon twisting of the back
  • Muscle spasms
  • Bowel or bladder dysfunction
  • Slumped posture
Causes:
  • Age related degeneration
  • Bone spurs
  • Herniate disc
  • Overuse
  • Faulty posture
Treatment:
  • ROM and stretching
  • Posture program
  • Core stabilization exercises
  • Lower and upper extremity strengthening
  • Soft tissue massage