Thoracic Pain

Thoracic pain is a common spinal disorder. When it occurs, it causes significant discomfort and even shooting pains throughout the back and chest region. It can literally affect your every breath.

This region of the spine (also called the middle back, upper back, or mid-back) is strong and stable in order to support upright posture and protect the vital internal organs in the chest. Unlike the neck and lower back, the thoracic spine is not designed for a wide range of movement. The vertebrae of this region are subject to strong anterior and posterior stresses which lead to vertebral compression fractures. These are frequently seen in older patients and accident victims.

Pain in the front of the chest is another condition that affects many people. The rib cartilage, ribs, sternum, and manubrium are areas that can all generate pain. Many patients that have had heart, lung, or breast surgery suffer from this type of pain. It may also occur after injury to the chest, such as rib injuries or fractures. Our pain medicine providers at Innovative Pain & Spine Specialists in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska have extensive experience in treating these areas. Solutions to these conditions are available and our patients have positive results.

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