Safe and Effective Ways to Alleviate Thoracic Condition Symptoms

Experiencing back pain from time to time may be due to fatigue and other minor causes, but if the pain becomes persistent, you may be suffering from a thoracic condition. Often when you have back pain, you take anti-inflammatory medicines or painkillers to relieve the pain, but if symptoms persist, you must see your doctor soon. You can reduce your persistent back issue by visiting Dr. Jeff Pan, an Edison thoracic conditions specialist who offers effective, customizable treatment plans that address the root cause of your pain.

How can your thoracic spine reduce your quality of life?

The thoracic spine is by far the longest part of your spine that connects your lumbar spine to your cervical spine lying along the rib cage. The body organ has the function of protecting the spinal cord and providing stability. The thoracic spine has little influence on your walking, but once the pain begins, you might want to sit down all day.

What thoracic conditions can influence the way you live your life?

 Despite being less flexible, your thoracic spine’s ability to function appropriately can take a hit significantly from thoracic conditions. Dr. Pan has experience in this field and some of the conditions he specializes in include:

·         Scheuerman’s kyphosis

Scheuerman’s kyphosis is a developmental disorder that occurs during growth, common in the adolescence stage. This disorder causes the rounding of your upper back, making it look like a hunchback. This disorder may not cause any damage to your spine and, but it reduces the space in your chest cavity, constricting your lungs and heart, hence affecting their functioning.

·         Compression fractures

A compression fracture refers to a fracture affecting vertebral height because of the weakening and crumpling of the bones in your spine due to aging or a hard fall.

·         Age-related kyphosis

Age-related kyphosis is a degenerative condition that causes changes in your thoracic spine leading to the hunchback posture.

·         Spinal tumors

These involve abnormal growths that occur around or within your spinal cord.

What is the best line of treatment for thoracic issues?

Dr. Pan reviews your medical history first before conducting a thorough medical examination to diagnose the condition. He will ask about your symptoms and the period your issue has affected you. Dr. Pan and his team conduct a physical evaluation that clearly outlines your spine’s structure, paying close attention to the area causing the pain. To confirm the accuracy of the diagnosis, Dr. Pan may require you to undergo diagnostic imaging including MRI, CT scan, or X-ray.

What treatment options are best for thoracic conditions?

Dr. Pan determines the appropriate treatment plan for you according to your diagnosis, severity, and medical history. Dr. Pan recommends that you treat thoracic condition symptoms using non-invasive treatments such as anti-inflammatory medicines, physical therapy, and bracing. If these treatments do not help your condition, then Dr. Pan may advise you to undergo surgery. For Scheuerman’s kyphosis, the team conducts complex spinal reconstruction to align your spine to prevent deterioration of the condition.

Have a renewed way of life by having your back pain treated promptly. For more information on thoracic conditions and their treatments, contact Dr. Pan or schedule an appointment online.