Specializing in Thoracic Herniated Disc Treatment
What are thoracic herniated discs?
The spine is divided into cervical (neck), thoracic (upper and mid back), and lumbar (lower back) regions. Between the vertebrae of each region are intervertebral discs that facilitate movement and act as "shock absorbers". Each disc is made up of an outer layer of tissue and an inner gel-like nucleus. A disc herniates when the inner nucleus pushes through the outer layer of tissue and protrudes into the spinal canal.
Herniated discs can occur in any region of the spine. A
thoracic herniated disc is typically caused by degenerative disc disease or an accident, injury, or trauma. The first step in treating a thoracic herniated disc is recognizing the symptoms. Dr. Virella is an expert thoracic herniated disc doctor/surgeon who analyzes his patients' symptoms and accurately diagnoses their condition.
What are the symptoms of a thoracic herniated disc?
Symptoms of a thoracic herniated disc are usually felt in the upper and mid back. If a thoracic herniated disc has compressed a nerve, symptoms may be experienced in the extremities. The most common symptoms include the following:
- Pain
- Weakness
- Numbness and/or tingling
Symptoms may be brought on by?or become worse when?coughing or sneezing. Patients who experience symptoms are encouraged to make an appointment with Dr. Virella. Once Dr. Virella makes an official diagnosis, he prescribes a treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of his patient.
What are thoracic herniated discs treatment/procedure options?
Dr. Virella treats thoracic herniated discs using nonsurgical and surgical treatment options. Common nonsurgical options include the following:
- Rest
- Pain medications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
If nonsurgical treatment options do not resolve symptoms or if a patient has a severely herniated disc, Dr. Virella may recommend surgery. As an expert in
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS), Dr. Virella performs a variety of procedures that decrease symptoms and help patients live a pain-free and happy life.
If you are ready to find a solution to your back, neck or spine condition contact us to make an appointment with Dr. Virella. With three convenient locations in Agoura Hills, CA, Valencia, CA, and Palmdale, CA, making an appointment is easier than ever.
Anthony Virella, MD
Anthony Virella, MD is a Board-Certified, Fellowship Trained Neurological Spine Surgeon with advanced training in the management spinal disorders. He is also a graduate of the UCLA Neurosurgery Residency Program and completed his Complex Spine Resident Fellowship at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Additional work included a second Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at the UCLA Comprehensive Spine Center. Dr. Virella is a nationally recognized spine specialist and has authored numerous articles and lectured nationally and internationally in the field of Complex and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.
