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Doctors Lounge - Orthopedics Answers
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| Wondering
- Wed Jun 01, 2005 7:02 pm |
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Hi! I just had an injury at work that resulted in a central disc herniation between T9 and T10. I have been seeing my chiroprater and using a TENS unit. I have an appointment with a neurosurgeon in a couple weeks. What I am wondering is what is a realistic prognosis for a herniation at this level? I am far more familiar with cervial and lumbar herniations.
I know that thoracic herniations are somewhat unusual and that at this particular level, a good sneeze, coughing, vomiting, etc. can finish the job on the disc. Will I ever be able to do heavy lifting again? How long before I should expect to see a dramatic improvement in pain free days?
Any responses and/or resources wuold be appreciated! Thank you!
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| Dr. Safaa Mahmoud
- Tue Aug 08, 2006 9:18 pm |
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 Dear Wondering,
Thoracic disc prolapse is less common than cervical and lumbar disc prolapse and should be properly managed :
-During the early acute phase Conservative measures are done as follows:
Physical therapy, cold/heat therapy, electric & US therapy,rest and exercises that are prescribed by the specialist that do not aggravate symptoms.
- Long term modifications in life style :
Proper posture, control of weight gain, change job if needed to avoid recurrent injuries.
- Medications and aidslike:
NSAID, if failed steroid injection for intercostal nerve blocks.
A brace is acceptable initially to help immobilization but long-term bracing is a voided.
Surgical decompression is considered in neurologically compromised individual with no improvement after 4-6 weeks of conservative management. Or severe cases from the start.
A spinal physician is the one able to determine if surgery is the best treatment for the patient.
Hope you find this information useful.
Best regards,
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