The thoracic region is located in the middle of the spine. It provides structural support and anchors the ribcage, protecting vital organs like the heart and lungs. The thoracic region may be susceptible to pain due to various causes, such as muscle strains, poor posture, spinal issues, or injuries. Our treatments can address this condition and help patients relieve their discomfort.
At the Expert Care Center, people with thoracic pain receive specialized care. Dr. Gazelle Aram deeply understands the complexities of mid-back discomfort and uses the latest diagnostic techniques. She identifies the root causes of thoracic pain and creates customized treatment plans to address each individual’s unique needs.
This disease occurs when the discs in the thoracic spine begin to break down due to age, wear and tear, or injury. The discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, and as they deteriorate, they can cause chronic back pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Decreased disc height may put pressure on nearby spinal nerves.
Shingles and postherpetic neuralgia result from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox) and cause persistent pain in the thoracic region. The condition typically begins with a painful, blistering rash that follows a nerve pathway around one side of the torso. Even after the rash heals, some patients develop postherpetic neuralgia, a chronic condition characterized by burning pain, sensitivity, and tingling in the affected area that can persist for months or even years.
Spinal compression fractures occur when vertebrae in the thoracic spine collapse, often due to osteoporosis or trauma. These injuries can cause acute back pain that worsens with standing, walking, or other movements. It may improve with rest but often becomes chronic if left untreated. Compression fractures might also lead to a loss of height and changes in posture, potentially causing a hunched appearance known as kyphosis.
Rib pain can result from various conditions affecting the ribs and their connections to the thoracic spine, including costochondritis, rib fractures, or muscle strain. The pain may be sharp and severe, particularly with deep breathing, coughing, or specific movements. It might be localized to a particular area or spread across the chest wall and upper back.
This disease occurs when the discs in the thoracic spine begin to break down due to age, wear and tear, or injury. The discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, and as they deteriorate, they can cause chronic back pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Decreased disc height may put pressure on nearby spinal nerves.
Nerve impingement in the thoracic spine occurs when nerves become compressed or irritated, often due to herniated discs, bone spurs, or other structural changes. This condition can cause sharp pain that may radiate along the path of the affected nerve, often wrapping around the rib cage. Patients might also experience numbness, tingling, and weakness. Nerve pain and other symptoms can worsen with specific movements or positions.
Epidural steroid injections are a standard option for pain management. They involve injecting a local anesthetic and corticosteroids into the space around the spine. This procedure helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain by delivering medication directly to the source of discomfort. Steroids suppress the immune system’s response, while anesthetics block pain signals. These injections can be particularly effective for conditions caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or nerve root compression, and the effects may last anywhere from several days to months.
Nerve blocks are injections that target specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the thoracic region to the brain. The procedure involves injecting local anesthetic, sometimes combined with steroids, around particular nerve roots or clusters. This treatment can be diagnostic and therapeutic, helping Dr. Aram identify the exact source of pain while providing relief. Nerve blocks are particularly effective for conditions like intercostal neuralgia, thoracic radiculopathy, and complex regional pain syndrome, offering relief that may last from several weeks to months, depending on the specific issue and individual response.
Recovery typically involves a multifaceted approach to ensure optimal healing and prevent future pain episodes. Physical therapy is often crucial for strengthening the muscles supporting the thoracic spine and improving posture and flexibility. Many people also benefit from chiropractic treatment, which can help maintain proper spinal function and reduce tension.
Thoracic pain may stem from various causes, requiring targeted treatment options. Below are the primary groups of candidates for our procedures:
Effective thoracic pain treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing discomfort in this region. Below are the primary benefits of undergoing our procedures:
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, reimburse a significant portion of these expenses when deemed medically necessary, though coverage varies by provider. Our team helps patients verify their insurance benefits and offers different payment options. It is best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aram to receive all information about your condition and potential treatment costs.
What Makes Our Chronic Back Pain Treatment Different From Others?
At Expert Care Center, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Aram, a distinguished fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) and the Advanced Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI). These prestigious affiliations provide access to the latest advancements in pain management and regenerative treatments. We combine cutting-edge technology with comprehensive, individualized care protocols to effectively address thoracic pain. Patient success stories and consistently positive outcomes demonstrate our deep expertise and commitment to excellence in pain management.
Possible Conditions
Please read carefully: The information on this website is to provide general guidance. In no way does any of the information provided reflect definitive medical advice and self-diagnoses should not be made based on information obtained online. It is important to consult a pain management doctor at Expert Care Center regarding ANY and ALL symptoms or signs as it may a sign of a serious illness or condition. A thorough consultation and examination should ALWAYS be performed for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Regenerative medicine therapies are not FDA-approved to treat chronic pain or other pain-related medical conditions. Be sure to call a pain physician or our pain management office today and schedule a consultation with a specialist.
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