What Is Thoracic Spondylosis?

Thoracic spondylosis (disc degeneration) generally occurs in older persons. Narrowing of the discs between vertebrae in the thoracic region of the spine will cause a variety of symptoms including tingling, numbness and pain to the mid-section.

Spinal Column

• The 33 vertebrae of the human spinal column are stacked upon one another. The spine is divided into five sections: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and the coccyx. Between each vertebra rests a disc filled with nucleus pulposus (a gel-like substance).

Thoracic Spine

• Composed of 12 vertebrae, the thoracic region supports the thorax, ribs and upper back. Responsible for upper body support and movement, the thoracic region endures enormous pressure.

Spondylosis

• Also referred to as disc degenerative disease, spondylosis occurs as a result of anatomic changes. The anatomical changes usually begin as a tear to the annulus (outer layer of the disc) resulting in disc decompression.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of thoracic spondylosis can include disc herniation, degenerative spondylolisthesis, stenosis (narrowing of a tubular structure) and referred pain. Treatment depends on age, severity of condition and presentation.

Effects

• Thoracic spondylosis causes interdependent degenerative changes to the spine. As the condition progresses, spinal instability and nerve damage can occur. Advanced spondylosis can lead to thickening of spinal of ligaments, furthering decompression.