|  | Conditions Treatments | Back Pain

What Is Thoracic Spine?

The thoracic spine is the middle section of the spinal anatomy located between the cervical and lumbar vertebrae. It consists of bony vertebral discs alternating with softer cartilage discs that act as a cushion between the vertebrae.

  1. Location

    • The thoracic spine is often referred to as T1 through T12 and is located in the chest region. The ribs attach in the back at the thoracic vertebrae and serve to help protect the organs.

    Features

    • The spinal vertebrae get progressively larger through the thoracic spine to bear the size and weight of the larger muscles.

    Function

    • The spinal anatomy holds the body upright. The thoracic section offers protection for the organs (with the rib attachments), and serves to innervate the organs and muscles of the abdomen and chest areas.

    Distinction

    • Unlike the cervical and lumbar spine, the thoracic spine has little movement due to rib attachments in the back of the chest and to the sternum in front.

    Considerations

    • Because the thoracic vertebrae have little movement, these are seldom the source of back discomfort. Pain in this area is most commonly due to soft tissue tension or injury.

Back Pain - Related Articles