Expert: Dr. Timothy K. Durnin - 10/23/2007

Question
First of all thank you for your time.

I hurt my back about 2 months ago, and am seeing a chiropractor. Initially I had a consistent spasm on the right side on my back of the rib cage area (a grabbing/clutching feeling anytime I tried to reach or stretch) After consistent adjustments and accupressure, it still was not feeling better and went for a MRI of the thoracic region. The MRI results were as follows:

  The examination reveals a small posterior ridge with central and left-sided subligamentous disc herniation at T10-T11 moderately impressing on the anterior thecal sac at this level.  Moderate disc bulging is present at the T11-T12 level.  Mild hypertrophic changes with disc desiccation are present at both levels.  The remaining thoracic discs to be intact.  No significant cord compression is evident.  No gross widening of the visualized thoracic cord is noted.
The thoracic vertebral bodies are of proper height with no evidence of acute fracture or dislocation.

I'm having consistent mid back pain now although the ultrasound treatment(2x a week) helps but is replaced by the intense spasm, so its a tradeoff. Putting on socks, sitting, standing for periods is tough  and is relieved by lying on the floor with an ice bag. I was told that it may take up to a year to heal on its own but have read so many things that say it may not even heal. I'm 6ft 32 average weight.
After reading your articles I am taking the chondroitin and MSM supplements along with norwegian fish oil. I have also started applying msm chondroitin cream to the mid back area. History wise I have had no other medical problems or any surgeries.
My question is will this indeed get better on its own and should I be severely concerned that I haven't healed yet? I was told that thoracic disc injuries are rare and there really is limited nonsurgical treatment.

Thanks again.

Answer
Hi Mike,

Although thoracic herniation is somewhat uncommon, it isn't rare. An flexion/distraction table is all you need. Find a DC with one that knows how to use it and you'll be pain free in 2 weeks. The disc will be negative on MRI in 6 if the DC knows what he is doing.

Here are two links that explains it and how to tell if its being done correctly.

http://www.coxtechnic.com/

http://www.chiropub.com/issues/articles/2007-03_03.asp

Google flexion/distraction and you'll find all you need!

Good Luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin