A herniated disc is a health problem that occurs when the discs in the central part of the spine tear or slip out of place. This condition, called "thoracic disc herniation" in medicine, occurs especially between the 12 vertebrae (T1-T12) in the thoracic spine. A herniated disc usually occurs when the discs in the central part of the spine expel the gel-like substance inside and put pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord.
Although less common than other spinal hernias, a herniated disc can lead to serious neurological symptoms. These symptoms can include back pain, numbness, tingling and muscle weakness due to compression of nerve roots. Leaving a herniated disc untreated can lead to worsening symptoms and a reduced quality of life. Therefore, it is important to diagnose a herniated disc early and apply appropriate treatment methods.
How do back hernias occur?
A herniated disc (thoracic disc herniation) can develop due to various causes:
Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear of the discs due to aging can lead to thinning of the discs and herniation.
Trauma: Falls, accidents or sports injuries can cause sudden damage to the spinal discs and lead to a herniated disc.
Repetitive Stress: Continuous heavy lifting or movements with incorrect posture can damage the discs over time and lead to a herniated disc.
Genetic Predisposition: People with a family history of disc herniation may have a higher risk of back herniation.
Bad Posture: Sitting with poor posture or lifting heavy loads, especially for a long time, can cause back herniated discs by putting excessive pressure on the spine.
What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?
A herniated disc can cause different symptoms depending on the size and location of the discs:
- Mid Back Pain: Localized pain felt in the middle part of the back, especially in the spine.
- Radiating Pain: Pain radiating around the chest or abdomen, sometimes mistaken for heart or stomach problems.
- Numbness and Tingling: Loss of sensation or tingling in the back, chest or abdomen.
- Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the lower body muscles, which can lead to problems with walking and balance.
- Myelopathy: In severe cases, neurological disorders such as difficulty walking, loss of bladder or bowel control may develop due to spinal cord compression.
How are back hernias diagnosed?
The following methods are used for the correct diagnosis of a back hernia:
Medical History and Physical Examination: The patient's symptoms are evaluated and neurological functions are tested.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): The most effective method for visualizing the disc herniation and its effect on the nerve roots.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Used when MRI is contraindicated or when detailed examination of bone structures is required.
X-ray: Used to assess spinal alignment and detect possible fractures.
Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies: Used to determine the effect of herniation on nerve function.
How is a herniated disc in the back treated?
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many cases of thoracic disc herniation can be managed with conservative treatments, including
Medications: Painkillers, muscle relaxants and nerve pain relievers can be used to treat a herniated disc.
Physical Therapy: Exercise programs that strengthen the back muscles and increase flexibility can help improve a herniated disc.
Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that trigger pain and ergonomic adjustments are recommended.
Epidural Steroid Injections: Used to reduce inflammation and pain around the nerve roots.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Can be used to relieve muscle tension.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases of severe or persistent symptoms, neurological deficits or myelopathy. Surgical options include
Discectomy: Removal of part of the herniated disc to decompress the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra (lamina) to access and decompress the herniated disc.
Fusion Surgery: Fusion of the affected vertebrae together with discectomy or laminectomy to provide long-term stability.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: Endoscopic or microscopic procedures to reduce recovery time and surgical risks.
Postoperative Care
Post-operative care is crucial for recovery and includes
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy aims to restore strength, flexibility and functionality.
Pain Management: Medications and other methods are used to control pain after surgery.
Regular Follow-up: Regular check-ups are performed to monitor surgical results and prevent possible complications.
Recommendations for People with Back Hernia
Patients with a back hernia should pay attention to the following recommendations to make their daily lives more comfortable:
Ergonomic Seating: Organize your workspace in a way that supports your back.
Regular Exercise: Strengthen the back muscles with low-impact exercises such as swimming or walking.
Correct Posture: Keep your spine in the correct position when standing, sitting and lifting weights.
