Dr. Joel Edionwe is a board-certified, fellowship-trained spine surgeon in San Antonio who evaluates and treats thoracic stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal in the mid-back region, for patients throughout South Texas. While less common than stenosis in the cervical or lumbar spine, thoracic stenosis can cause significant mid-back pain, stiffness, and in more serious cases, neurological symptoms that require prompt attention. Dr. Edionwe takes a thorough, individualized approach to diagnosis and treatment, and sees patients from across San Antonio as well as those traveling from the Rio Grande Valley and Laredo.
Thoracic Spondylosis
Thoracic spondylosis refers to degenerative changes in the thoracic spine, which is the middle portion of the vertebral column corresponding to the chest area. Spondylosis is a term that encompasses age-related wear and tear on the spine, including changes in the intervertebral discs, vertebrae, and facet joints. Thoracic spondylosis is less common than spondylosis in the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) regions but can still occur, leading to various symptoms.
Key Features of Thoracic Spondylosis:
Degenerative Changes:
Disc Degeneration: The intervertebral discs between the thoracic vertebrae lose water content and may thin over time.
Facet Joint Changes: Degeneration of the facet joints, which connect the vertebrae, can occur.
Causes:
Aging: Like other forms of spondylosis, thoracic spondylosis is primarily associated with the natural aging process.
Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition can influence the development of spondylosis.
Symptoms:
Thoracic Pain: Chronic pain or stiffness in the mid-back region is a common symptom.
Radiating Pain: Pain may radiate around the chest or abdomen, but it is less likely to extend into the arms or legs compared to cervical or lumbar spondylosis.
Limited Range of Motion: Stiffness and a decreased ability to twist or bend the mid-back.
Rare Neurological Symptoms: Thoracic spondylosis less commonly causes neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness compared to lumbar or cervical involvement.
Diagnostic Approaches:
Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or CT (Computed Tomography) scans help visualize the thoracic spine and assess the extent of degenerative changes.
Physical Examination: A healthcare provider assesses symptoms, range of motion, and neurological function.
Treatment Options:
Conservative Management: Non-surgical approaches include physical therapy, pain medications, and lifestyle modifications.
Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids into the affected area to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
Surgical Intervention: Surgery is rarely needed for thoracic spondylosis but may be considered in severe cases with significant spinal instability or compression of the spinal cord.
