Thoracic Disc Herniation in New Jersey

Name: Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute
Rating: 4.4

A thoracic disc herniation happens when a disc in the mid-back presses on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, leading to pain, stiffness, or numbness. Our expert spine team at the Gerling Institute in New Jersey offers precise, patient-centered care to help you move without pain.

Understanding the Thoracic Spine

The thoracic spine forms the midsection of your back, connecting to the rib cage and providing essential support for the upper body. Because this area moves less than the neck or lower back, disc herniations are uncommon, but when they occur, they can compress nerves or the spinal cord, resulting in pain, weakness, or numbness.

At our New Jersey spine center, Dr. Michael Gerling and his team combine advanced imaging, regenerative medicine, and minimally invasive procedures to restore spinal health and prevent long-term complications.

Causes of Thoracic Disc Herniation

Degenerative Disc Disease

As spinal discs naturally lose hydration and elasticity with age, they become more prone to bulging or tearing under stress.

Spinal Trauma

Injury, repetitive strain, or sudden impact to the back can damage the disc’s outer layer and lead to herniation.

Poor Posture or Biomechanics

Prolonged sitting, twisting, or improper lifting techniques can place excess stress on the thoracic spine, contributing to disc damage, a common issue among individuals with sedentary or physically demanding jobs.

Genetic Predisposition

Inherited spinal or disc abnormalities can make certain individuals more susceptible to thoracic disc herniation.

Previous Spinal Conditions or Surgery

Prior spinal problems or surgical interventions can alter spinal mechanics, increasing the load and pressure on surrounding thoracic discs.

Doctor in blue scrubs holding a model of the human spine to explain spinal anatomy

Symptoms of Thoracic Disc Herniation

The symptoms of thoracic disc herniation in New Jersey can vary depending on the disc’s position and whether it’s compressing the spinal cord or nearby nerves. Common symptoms include:

Mid-back pain or stiffness
Pain that wraps around the ribs, chest, or abdomen
Numbness or tingling in the trunk or legs
Muscle weakness or coordination problems
Balance issues or instability
In severe cases, bowel or bladder changes

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, promptly contact a New Jersey spine specialist for evaluation and treatment. Early intervention can help prevent long-term nerve damage and restore mobility.

Diagnosis at the Gerling Institute

At our New Jersey spine center, diagnosis begins with a detailed review of your symptoms and medical history, followed by a comprehensive physical and neurological examination. To accurately identify the location and severity of the herniation, your provider may recommend:

MRI – to assess the herniated disc and nerve involvement
CT scan – to examine the spinal bone and soft tissue detail
X-rays – to evaluate alignment and rule out fractures
Electromyography (EMG) – to assess nerve function when weakness or numbness occurs

This precise diagnostic process ensures your treatment plan is tailored to your unique condition and recovery goals.

Thoracic Disc Herniation Treatment Options in New Jersey

Treatment depends on the severity of the herniation and your overall health. In many cases, non-surgical treatments can significantly reduce pain and inflammation while improving spinal stability.

Conservative therapies may include:

Customized physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises
Anti-inflammatory or pain-relief medications
Epidural steroid injections for targeted relief
Posture training and ergonomic adjustments
Heat and cold therapy

When conservative care isn’t enough, minimally invasive surgery may be recommended. Procedures such as thoracic discectomy or endoscopic spine surgery can remove the herniated portion of the disc and decompress the spinal cord, often allowing patients to return home the same day.

Why Choose the Gerling Institute for Thoracic Disc Herniation Treatment in New Jersey

At the Gerling Institute, we combine medical innovation with compassionate, patient-centered care. Under the direction of Dr. Michael Gerling, a world-renowned spine surgeon and pioneer in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery, our New Jersey team provides leading-edge treatments designed to restore health from the inside out.

Our integrative model emphasizes whole-person healing, incorporating regenerative medicine, advanced diagnostics, and personalized rehabilitation. Whether seeking relief from chronic pain or recovering from an injury, our specialists deliver precise, holistic care to help you move freely and live without limitation.

We’re here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with experienced spine care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.