Thoracic Myelopathy

Mid-Back / Thoracic

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Treatment for Thoracic Myelopathy in New Jersey

The spinal cord is often called an information superhighway. This thick bundle of nerves extends through the spine, carrying sensory and motor information between the brain and the rest of the body. When part of the spinal cord becomes compressed, the flow of information is hampered. This condition is called thoracic myelopathy. In many cases, myelopathy goes undetected. In some patients, however, the condition causes pain that requires medical treatment. When it occurs in the thoracic region of the spine (middle back), it is called thoracic myelopathy.

NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute is a spine surgery hospital with locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, and Hainesport. We provide non-invasive treatments and minimally invasive spine surgery for all kinds of back pain, helping patients return to a pain-free life.

What Causes Thoracic Myelopathy?

Thoracic myelopathy occurs when part of the spinal cord becomes squeezed or compressed in the middle back. There are many possible reasons for spinal cord compression. The most common include:

Spinal stenosis in the lower back or neck
Spondylosis or other types of arthritis
Degenerative disc disease
A herniated thoracic disc
Thoracic deformity such as scoliosis or thoracic kyphosis
Severe back trauma
Inflammation from an infection
Some autoimmune disorders
A tumor or cancer in the spine
Ischemia, or restricted blood supply
Surgical complications
Post-laminectomy syndrome

Because there are so many potential causes for thoracic myelopathy, patients must visit a spine specialist, like a neurosurgeon, to ensure an accurate diagnosis. An experienced neurosurgeon can identify the root cause of the myelopathy to ensure that your pain is treated at its source.

What Are the Symptoms of Thoracic Myelopathy?

Thoracic myelopathy can go undetected for long periods. When it does display symptoms, they tend to appear slowly. Many patients describe the condition as “creeping up” on them. You may realize you have a problem when you begin to experience:

Back pain
Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations in the lower extremities
Difficulties with balance

As the condition progresses, symptoms begin to worsen. Other signs may also start to appear, caused by more severe nerve compression or damage. Symptoms of later-stage myelopathy include:

Difficulties with coordination
Unusual posture or gait
Enhanced or abnormal reflexes
Decrease in fine motor dexterity
Muscle weakness in the legs
Bowel or bladder incontinence

Early diagnosis and treatment are invaluable. By catching your condition early, doctors can prevent it from becoming more severe. They may also ensure more successful treatment outcomes. If you experience symptoms like those described above, share your concerns with a trusted neurosurgeon. Reporting your pain is the first step toward long-term relief.

How Is Thoracic Myelopathy Diagnosed?

Before treating thoracic myelopathy, doctors must first identify its root cause. At NU-Spine, board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. Branko Skovrlj will narrow the list by reviewing your medical history and running a gamut of tests. As part of the diagnosis, he may request:

A physical exam to test for sensitivity zones and motor skills
Imaging tests, such as X-ray and MRI, to rule out other spinal disorders
A myelography to highlight any spinal cord abnormalities
An electromyogram to evaluate spinal cord nerve function

These tests will help Dr. Skovrlj come to a firm decision about the cause of your thoracic myelopathy. The more he knows about your condition, the more effectively he can devise a treatment plan and the sooner you will return to pain-free living.

What Are Treatments for Thoracic Myelopathy?

Once he has diagnosed your condition, Dr. Skovrlj will suggest a treatment plan for spinal decompression. NU-Spine specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery that causes less stress to your body, allowing a shorter recovery time with fewer side effects. The right procedure will depend on the cause of your myelopathy. Possible options may include:

Certain causes of thoracic myelopathy can return even after surgery. To prevent a recurrence, Dr. Skovrlj may recommend certain lifestyle adjustments that will improve spine health:

Stretching your back after exercising
Maintaining good posture when sitting or standing
Eating a healthy diet that includes all essential nutrients
Regularly exercising your core muscles
Monitoring changes in your back and informing your spine surgeon

By receiving prompt treatment and following post-procedure recommendations, most patients can return to their everyday activities.

Treatment for Thoracic Myelopathy Back at NU-Spine

If you are struggling with pain that might be caused by thoracic myelopathy, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with our spine experts today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today for an initial consultation, or visit one of our locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, and Hainesport, New Jersey.