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Laser Spine Institute

Laser Spine Institute's minimally invasive procedures are the safe and effective alternative to open neck or back surgery.

Our revolutionary endoscopic surgical techniques are proven to help patients return to their normal, active lifestyles. Every month, more people come to Laser Spine Institute for help in relieving their neck and back pain than to any other spine surgery center in the world.
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There are many spinal conditions that are treated at the Laser Spine Institute. All procedures are uniquely designed and developed to provide patients with the best possible medical care.More on endoscopic spine procedures
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Spine Conditions
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Types of Torn Discs
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Types of Torn Discs
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Thoracic

Torn Disc
- Torn Disc Overview
  - What Are Torn Discs?
Types of Torn Discs
- Types of Torn Discs
  - Cervical
  - Thoracic
  - Lumbar
  - Back
    - Lower Back
Torn Disc Symptoms
- Torn Disc Symptoms
Torn Disc Treatment
- Torn Disc Treatment
Torn Disc Prevention
- Torn Disc Prevention
Torn Disc Risk Factors
- Torn Disc Risk Factors
  - Aging

Thoracic Torn Disc

A thoracic torn disc is a condition in which the annulus fibrosus (or outer layer) of one of the intervertebral discs between the thoracic (T1-T12) vertebrae ruptures. This outer layer normally protects and holds the jelly-like nucleus pulposus, or inner layer, of the disc, but when the annulus fibrosus tears, this inner layer is able to leak out into the spinal canal. This condition is more commonly known as ruptured or herniated disc.

Symptoms of a Thoracic Torn Disc

Most of the time, this condition does not cause any symptoms because the disc does not impinge upon the spinal cord or a nerve root, and many people don’t even realize they have a torn disc. However, when it does put pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root, a thoracic torn disc presents symptoms that are experienced in the middle of the back, ribs, chest, and arms. These symptoms include:

Tingling
Numbness
Pain
Muscle weakness
Loss of movement
More

Treatments for a Thoracic Torn Disc

Due to the support provided by the rib cage in the thoracic region of the spine, a thoracic torn disc is much less common than one in the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) region. However, that doesn’t mean that symptoms will be any more bearable when they do occur, and a torn disc can make it difficult even to get out of bed in the morning. To help those suffering from a ruptured disc continue to live a happy life, there are a number of conservative treatment options available, including: