Thoracic Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is a condition of the spine where the invertebral discs of the spine are damaged. The condition is also called spondylosis and affects all regions of the spine including the thoracic vertebrae located at the center back. While it is rare for the thoracic discs to become damaged due to their location, trauma and aging of the discs may make the area vulnerable.

Anatomy

• The human spine is made up of several sections of stacked bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae provide support and protection for the spinal cord and nerves while also allowing movement in many directions. Thoracic vertebrae do not move and bend in the same manner as other vertebrae. The invertebral discs are a cushion that separates the vertebrae. Contrary to the name, thoracic degenerative disc disease is not always degenerative; in many cases the condition may stabilize or improve with time.

Symptoms

• The condition is rare, but when it occurs the pain tends to be isolated in the upper back with radiating pain through nerve roots. The sudden movement created by sneezing or coughing increases the pain. In cases where the disc herniates into the spinal cord, a person will have problems with walking and balance along with bladder or bowel dysfunction.

Cause

• Degenerative disc disease in the thoracic area is generally caused by wear and tear on the vertebrae through the aging process. A person is born with soft, spongy discs that are comprised of 80 percent water. Through age, the water amount decreases, making the disc rigid and stiff. The discs flatten in size, decreasing the space between each vertebra. The change in texture causes the discs to be fragile and prone to damage. When damage occurs to the outer layer of the disc, the inside nucleus bulges out and causes the condition. Along with age, trauma to the back may also cause the condition.

Diagnosis

• A physician specializing in back problems and the spine will evaluate the patient's medical history along with changes that recently occurred. If a herniated disc is suspected, the patient will undergo an X-ray to view the bone structure and evaluate whether an injury or trauma occurred. An MRI scan can show the soft tissues in the body to evaluate the condition of the discs.

Treatment

• The first treatment for thoracic degenerative disc disease is a non surgical approach. A patient will be instructed on proper posture and prescribed limited activity and rest. Hot and cold pack treatments are given to reduce pain and swelling along with anti-inflammatory medication. Some patients respond to a chiropractic treatment or massage therapy. Cortisone injections and muscle relaxants are sometimes used to reduce pain and aid in healing. Surgery is used for treatment when a patient does not respond to other methods. The goal of surgery is to reduce pressure on the nerve roots. Surgery involves removing the damaged disc and fusing the vertebrae together or removing a portion of the vertebrae to create more space in the spine.