Thoracic spondylosis is a condition involving that natural wearing down of bones, cartilage and ligaments of the spine in the mid-back area.
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our specialised treatment aims to:
Thoracic Spondylosis Treatment
What is thoracic spondylosis?
Spondylosis is a term referring to the natural wearing down in the mid-back, referred to as the thoracic spine. This area of the spinal column is comprised of vertebral bones, discs, ligaments and cartilage. Thoracic spondylosis can also be called arthritis or osteoarthritis of the back. Osteophytes (Bone spurs), thinned discs, thickened ligaments and cartilage loss are all part of spondylosis.
What are the causes?
As one gets older, the spine undergoes changes as a result of normal wear and tear over the years. Additional risk factors include obesity, smoking history, sedentary lifestyles, high impact activities and other conditions (e.g., diabetes, IBS, Lyme disease, etc.). Thoracic spondylosis typically occurs over the age of 70.
There are typically 5 main causes of thoracic spondylosis:
- Degeneration – over time, the discs in your back slowly wear down, become thinner and surrounding tissue loses elasticity.
- Herniated Discs – through age, it is normal for discs to crack or tear, causing it to herniate (bulge out). Herniation can put pressure on and irritate nearby nerves, causing pain. This can also occur from a trauma injury.
- Bone Spurs – when spinal discs ‘dehydrate’ and shrink over time; this degeneration causes loading on the bone, triggering abnormal bone growths in an attempt to strengthen and stabilise the spine.
- Stiff Ligaments – ligaments are cords of muscle which connect bones together and can stiffen or thicken with age
- Osteoarthritis – this is a progressive condition which causes the degeneration of cartilage in joints at a faster rate than normal aging.
What are the symptoms?
- Back pain and/or stiffness
- Soreness or numbness in the back
- Muscle spasms or cramps
- Tingling/pins and needles sensation
- Difficulty with movement
- Joint clicking or locking
- Reduced range of motion
- Differential diagnoses of other conditions (e.g., Facet Joint Syndrome)
Treatment for thoracic spondylosis
As there are different causes and presentations of thoracic spondylosis, you may be referred to get scans (X-ray, MRI and/or CT). A physiotherapist will then be able to assess the severity of the condition and the treatment required. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent thoracic spondylosis from developing into a chronic condition.
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a treatment plan to best fit your recovery goals through:
- Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening, conditioning and balance techniques
- Restoring range of movement
- Postural improvement
- Dry needling
- Taping
- Shockwave Therapy
- TENS treatment
- Home exercise and self-management techniques
- Graded Exposure to load program
Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use spinal support (braces) or a Therapeutic Pillow.
How to book an appointment?
If you have thoracic spondylosis, or you’re looking for a ‘physiotherapist near me’, our physios at Vitalis Physiotherapy can assess your condition to tailor a unique rehabilitation plan to aid in your pain relief and recovery. They may also refer you to get scans in some severe cases to better understand your needs.
All you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.
You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.
Need Help?
Are you in pain caused by thoracic spondylosis? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment.
Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
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