Thoracic Myelopathy

Thoracic myelopathy is a serious medical condition involving compression of the spinal cord in the mid-back (thoracic spine), which can disrupt nerve signals between the body and brain.

Symptoms

• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Balance and walking difficulties
• Loss of bowel or bladder control (in severe cases)

Causes & Risk Factors

• Causes: Herniated discs, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), bone spurs, or spinal tumors.
• Risk Factors: Advanced age, degenerative spinal disc disease, prior spine trauma, and arthritis.

Diagnosis & Treatment

• Diagnosis: Confirmed using advanced imaging, primarily MRI or CT scans, alongside a thorough neurological evaluation by our spine specialists.
• Treatment: Ranging from physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications for mild cases to surgical decompression to relieve pressure on the spinal cord for advanced progression.