Thoracic Disc Bulge/Herniation

The disc is the cushion between the bones of the spine. They are made up of a fibrous outer ring called the annulus fibrosus, and a jelly-like inner material called the nucleus pulposus.  It is the nucleus pulposus that acts as the primary shock absorber within the disc. Over time, or because of a traumatic accident, the annulus fibrosus becomes torn and the jelly-like inner material will start to leak out towards the edges.  If the material reaches the outer edge and pushes the annulus fibrosus out, it is called a disc bulge.  If the last layer tears and the inner material leaks all the way out into the open space, this is called a disc herniation. The outer third of our disc has nerve innervation, which means the disc itself can be a source of pain.  If the nucleus pulposus leaks out and the nearby nerves become irritated or compressed this can cause pain, numbness/tingling, which can be local or radiate along a dermatomal pattern. Thoracic disc bulge/herniations are less common than cervical or lumbar disc herniations, in part because of there is usually less movement required of this portion of the spine. Although less common, the symptoms can be treated, and the patient should be educated on spinal precautions to avoid symptom exacerbation.  Here at Portland Physical Therapy we make sure to treat all of the impairments we find, and take the extra time to educate our patients on their condition(s) and how to take an active role in the road to recovery. 

Associated Symptoms:

  • Thoracic spine pain
  • Radiating pain, numbness, tingling
  • Pain with deep breaths
  • Tender to touch
  • Muscle spasm

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