The spine is a very complex part of the human body and as such, it needs to be cared for properly when any problems arise. In the human body, the spine is made up of individual bones that are known as vertebrae and they are separated by intervertebral discs. The intervertebral disc acts as a cushion to allow the vertebrae to move independently of each other but at the same time, it also allows for the ability for humans to stand upright. Unfortunately, there are also times whenever problems can occur.
Most of us think about lower back problems and that certainly is one of the more common issues that may take place. The spine is actually separated into a number of different sections for medical purposes and that includes the lumbar (lower) thoracic (middle) and cervical (upper). Anyone of these areas of the spine can cause problems with one of the most commonly occurring in the lumbar spine. Sometimes, however, problems may also occur in the thoracic spine, although it is less likely for those issues to take place. Sometimes, it is necessary to have lumbar and thoracic spine procedures, especially when it affects the area where the lumbar spine meets the thoracic spine.
Thoracic Spine Issues
One of the issues that may take place in the thoracic spine is a herniated disc. As you can imagine, this is a relatively rare condition but when it does occur, it can lead to a wide variety of issues in the spine, including progressive neurologic defects and severe, often intolerable pain. These types of issues would require a procedure to be done in order to correct the problem. One of the first steps in the process, however, is to choose a physician that can help you with these types of procedures in the best way possible.
Neurological & Spine Doctor
If you live in Plano, Richardson, Prosper, McKinney or anywhere throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you have the opportunity to visit one of the top board-certified brain and spine surgeons in the United States. He is Dr. Dickerman, and he can offer you the solutions that you need through a variety of treatment considerations that are both surgical and nonsurgical. When it comes to thoracic spine surgery, it may not always be necessary to have a surgical procedure. In fact, surgery is often only considered when other types of nonsurgical options are not going to work out properly.
One of the options that may be considered is a steroid injection. Many people find that they are able to get almost instantaneous relief because of the secondary medication that is included in the injections but once the steroid kicks in, it can reduce inflammation and help to limit the pain that you are experiencing for quite some time. Decompression surgery may also be required and this can go a long way in helping to take some of the pressure off of any nerves that may be compressed in the area. Contact the offices of Dr. Rob Dickerman for more information.
