Can Chest Pain Originate in the Thoracic Spine?

There are many different types of chest pain, with corresponding causes. Sometimes chest pain can manifest itself as a result of a problem in the spine. In this article, we are going to talk about what to do when an issue in the thoracic spine leads to chest pain.

Types of Chest Pain

Here are a few of the various types of chest pain and what each type might indicate:

• Sharp or stabbing chest pain. A sharp or stabbing pain in the chest as your breathe in can indicate a lung condition such as pneumonia, pleuritis, or lung abcess.
• Dull or aching chest pain. This may indicate a bruised rib or muscle strain in the area.
• Burning chest pain. A sense of burning in the chest is often caused by gastrointestinal issues like heartburn or GERD.
• Tightness or crushing pain in the chest. This type of pain is indicative of a heart attack or heart disease.

A pinched spinal nerve in the thoracic spine can lead to all of the above symptoms of chest pain. As a result, you should always seek medical attention if you are experiencing pain in the chest.

Treating Thoracic Spine Problems

An accurate diagnosis is the first course of action when it comes to chest pain. Once a doctor has narrowed down the cause and nature of the pain, you can work towards treatment. Depending on the cause of the pain, treatments can range from pain medications, to physical therapy, to surgery.

The Inspired MIS-DTIF procedure was specifically designed to treat issues of the thoracic spine. This minimally invasive keyhole spine surgery offers shorter operating times, and faster recoveries compared to other spine procedures. Best of all, the Inspired MIS-DTIF does not require disruption of the patient’s ribs like many other procedures do. If you are suffering form chest pain or pain in your mid spine, consider the Inspired MIS-DTIF surgery as a treatment option. You can learn more about this procedure, or find a provider in your area who performs this surgery by contacting us today.