Mid-back | Thoracic

Spine Treatment for Middle of the Back (Thoracic) Conditions in New Jersey

Home » Spine and Neck Conditions » Mid-back | Thoracic

We understand how debilitating back pain can be. When the mid-back or thoracic spine is involved, the resulting pain can be severe. While the thoracic region is a relatively strong part of the spine, a disorder in this area can have far-reaching consequences for activity, focus, and mood. A disorder in the thoracic region also may cause the curvature of the back to be enhanced.

If you notice pain in the middle of your back or are experiencing less strength in that area, visit NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Our founder and lead spine surgeon, Dr. Branko Skovrlj, MD, provides spine treatment options to help reduce back pain and treat disorders of the spine in New Jersey, with locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, and Holmdel, NJ.

The majority of back pain happens in the lumbar, or lower back, section of your spine. Acute low back pain that occurs suddenly is the most common type of lumbar pain. And it’s also the quickest to resolve itself. Chronic back pain, on the other hand, is insidious and rarely goes away without intervention. You may get short-term relief from rest or pain medicine, but the pain always returns. The only way to get long-term relief is through minimally invasive surgery. Call on a gifted neurosurgeon such as Dr. Branko Skovrlj at NU-Spine in New Jersey. Find out how you can benefit from the latest techniques offered by the best spine surgeon on the east coast.

What Is the Thoracic Part of the Spine?

Beginning right below the neck (or cervical spine), the thoracic region extends to the bottom of the rib cage. Below the rib cage, the lower back, or lumbar sacrum, extends to the hips and pelvis. Consisting of 12 vertebrae cushioned with shock-absorbing discs, the thoracic area is less flexible than the cervical or lumbar regions. This inflexibility is mostly because the thoracic spine adheres to the rib cage. The thoracic vertebrae are labeled T1 through T12.

The whole spine helps support the weight of the body and allows movement. It also protects the central nervous system. The thoracic spine is surrounded by many muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments that are used for mobility and flexibility. The mid-back is a crucial structure of the human body and contributes to the following:

Stabilizing the torso
Supporting the chest
Attaching each of the ribs
Protecting nerves that signal major organs, including the heart and lungs
Protecting more vulnerable areas of the spinal cord

What Can Go Wrong in the Thoracic Spinal Column?

As a stabilizing force in the body, the thoracic spine is a less flexible area than other spine regions. This inflexibility can lead to injury. Because the range of motion is more limited, muscle strain, trauma, and other damage to the area can affect the mid-back.

Spine conditions, such as the bone disease osteoporosis, also are factors to consider when diagnosing the causes of back pain. The bony structure of the vertebrae can break or fracture due to weakness. The spinal discs can wear down over time due to overuse, injuries, or aging. Circumstances and injuries can be responsible for thoracic spinal conditions that cause neck and back pain, including the following:

Complex Spinal Deformity

Treatment for Spinal Deformity in New Jersey Spinal deformities are prevalent, especially among adults over ...

Pinched Thoracic Nerve

Also called radiculopathy, this occurs when nerves in the back become compressed. This pressure interferes with normal nerve function, resulting in pain, unusual sensations, and ...

Scoliosis Care & Treatment

Sideways curvature of the spine. This spine condition often occurs during adolescence but can occur in people of all ages. Treatment can help prevent scoliosis ...

Thoracic Deformity

Most spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, are most evident in the thoracic region. They may also carry severe consequences by interfering with healthy organ development ...

Thoracic Disc Herniation

A compromised spinal disc may begin to leak core fluid. This reduces the cushioning material between vertebrae, allowing them to rub against one another, and ...

Thoracic Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a common type of spinal deformity that results in an exaggerated forward lean, or a hunchback. Severe kyphosis may lead to motor skill ...

Thoracic Myelopathy

This condition occurs when the spinal cord in your thoracic region becomes compressed. It progresses slowly, eventually causing leg weakness and problems with coordination and ...

Thoracic Radiculopathy

Like myelopathy, this occurs when a root nerve is pinched or compressed. Depending on which nerve bundle is affected, radiculopathy in the thoracic region may ...

Thoracic Spine Injury

Though the spinal cord is well protected in the thoracic region, it is still susceptible to damage after an accident or serious fall. Spinal cord ...

Treatment of Sacroiliac Joint Disease

Painful condition that affects the sacroiliac joints. The sacroiliac joints sit where the lower spine and pelvis meet. The condition can cause pain and stiffness ...

What’s the Best Back Pain Treatment for Thoracic Spinal Disorders?

Healthy habits and preventive practices can significantly reduce problems in the thoracic spine and back pain. We encourage patients to:

Maintain good posture
Regulate body weight
Quit smoking
Supplement diets with calcium and vitamin D
Exercise daily

Serving patients throughout New Jersey with locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, and Holmdel, NJ, Dr. Skovrlj is one of just a few neurosurgeons in New Jersey specializing in complex spine procedures. Begin your journey to wellness and transform your life with a touch of care! Experience the cutting-edge in minimally invasive spine treatments at NU-Spine. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with our spine experts today and take the first step towards a pain-free future.

Ask About Spine Surgery at NU-Spine

Are you struggling with back or neck pain? Don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Access cutting-edge, minimally invasive spine treatments at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute.

MRI Review

We offer a MRI review to most insured patients as part of our commitment to patient care

Patient Resouces

To save time please print out the Patient Form and fill out all fields prior to your appointment.

Latest News & Insights

Get the latest news, updates and insights into spinal surgery and minimally invasive treatments.