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Thoracic Disk problem

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jj341
jj341

18 years ago I herniated a thoracic disk in my back. The injury occurred from weightlifting.  I experienced breathing problems, pain in my abdomen and under my armpit.I also felt inflammation on the outside of my mid-back.  The doctors were not able to give me a diagnosis. I didn't know what the problem was so I kept on lifting weights and the symptoms worsened. One weird symptom I had was that my voice would change and become deeper after lifting weights.   I did a lot of research and found that the Merck Manual indicated that pain in the armpit was a symptom of a compromised Thoracic disk. The  Doctor agreed to an MRI and the result was 3 compromised Thoracic disks. One was herniated and the other 2 were bulging. I forget exactly which ones they were.

        I stopped weight lifting for 2 years. I started up after these 2 years and gradually was able to lift pain free.

Last week I was doing low rows in the gym with a heavy weight. When I got home my upper back muscles were in spasm. I also felt the inflammation in the same place to the very left of my mid back. Now,even if I lift a bagful of groceries my upper back muscles spasm and pain radiates to my chest.

       I went to the doctor and he gave me Prednisone and muscle relaxers.

I've been doing some research on the internet. There is much more information about Thoracic Disk problems now than when I looked in 1998. Should I wait this out and see how things go? Should I make and appointment with an Orthopedic or Neurologist. Should I go to a Chiropractor? Any input about this problem will be much appreciated. Thanks.

 

2 likes, 16 replies

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  • amkoffee
    amkoffee jj341

    Posted

    I am so glad to hear that. I think that in most cases PT can be very helpful if the patient does the exercises at home that they are supposed to do. It is good to hear that it may end up being nothing more then muscle pain rather then disk related. Good on you.
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