Thoracic Radiculitis

Symptoms by body part:

Lateral Thoracic (Lower-Ribs)
Dermatomal changes (numbness, tingling or pain along a traceable line)
Scapular/Interscapular region (Shoulder Blade)
Dermatomal changes (numbness, tingling or pain along a traceable line)
Thoracic Paraspinal (Mid-Side-Back)
Dermatomal changes (numbness, tingling or pain along a traceable line)
Thoracic Spine (Upper-Mid-Back)
Dermatomal changes (numbness, tingling or pain along a traceable line)

Radiculitis is defined as inflammation of the spinal nerve roots that are transmitting sensory and motor information via electrical and chemical signaling that control all aspects of muscle, joint, organ and skin function.  Nerves exit the spinal cord via an intervertebral foramen, or small hole that is formed by the surrounding bones and joints.  This opening is typically twice as large as the nerve root diameter, but often reduces in size due to inflammation from the surrounding soft tissue or changes of the boney structures.  Radiculitis in the Thoracic region is less common than in the Cervical and Lumbar regions, but must be carefully diagnosed from other conditions such as shingles as they can often mimic each other.  Clinical examination, X-rays or MRIs, Nerve Conduction Velocity testing and EMGs may be necessary in determining the origin.  

Common Signs/Symptoms

  • Early signs are spasms, or tightness of the muscles in the neck or back
  • Pain the shoulder, upper arm or forearm that may be referred pain from the thoracic spine in origin
  • Pain or burning down the arm or across the chest that is often traceable
  • Weakness within the muscles of the shoulder, arm, hand or back
  • electrical or shooting types of pain and hypersensitivity
  • Numbness or tingling felt in the arm, chest, back and hand that is often traceable

Possible Causes

  • Disc Bulges or Herniations (A tear of the outer layer of the disc)
  • Costovertebral (Rib) and Thoracic Restriction
  • Soft Tissue injuries
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Osteophytic changes (Arthritis)
  • Tumors
  • Infection

Treatment

Chiropractic Neurology is often an excellent treatment for these conditions if not caused by more serious issues that will be determined by thorough examination. Disc Decompression, Physical Therapy, Specific Chiropractic Neurological adjustments and postural rehab are extremely important aspects of your recovery.  Surgical intervention, steroid injections and other types of treatments are sometimes warranted, but avoided when possible.  

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