Definition
exaggerated curve of the thoracic spine's normal kyphosis (curve)
Description
As you age, you may notice a bit of a hump develop in your upper thoracic spine at the base of the neck or in the upper shoulder area. This hump is the result of forward head position on the neck and a protruding curve of the upper thoracic spine, giving the appearance of a hump. (You may even hear "dowager's hump" as a term for this condition.) This exaggerated curve may continue throughout the entire thoracic spine from the neck to the low back. Disc degeneration and osteoporosis of thoracic vertebrae may be the underlying causes. Just sitting at a computer can cause this type of problem as we sit with the head forward, looking down, often for hours, as we stare at a computer screen.The pain and tightness of the shoulder and neck region can result in headache pain, and Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression manipulation may alleviate such pain and headache.
Examination
A thorough, clinical examination that may include imaging is important to your rib subluxation's recovery and pain management.
Thoracic Spine Exam Description
Treatment
In office, Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre uses Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression to widen the canal space, drop the intradiscal pressure and increase the disc height to relieve pain.
You will welcome the Cox Technic manipulation that gently "pulls you apart," as many patients describe the treatment or say they need. Depending on the severity of your pain and symptoms, gentler side-lying Cox Technic may be applied until 50% relief of pain or supine Cox Technic with you lying face up may be applied to guide your recovery.
Goal of Cox Technic for the Thoracic Spine (mid-back)
The disc is pressing on the nerve. Note that as the disc herniation reduces, the pinched nerve is relieved.
This
is an animation of the goal of Cox Technic Flexion-Distraction and
Decompression: reduced irritation of spinal elements enough to relieve pain and
help you regain your quality of life. The amount of decrease in size of the
herniated disc necessary for pain relief varies from 0% to 100% for each
individual patient.
Cox Technic for the Thoracic Spine (mid-back)
At Home Care
Among other recommendations, at home you may want to take nutritional supplements that help disc cartilage and bone health, sleep on a supportive mattress, sit in an ergonomically designed chair, and modify your daily activities as needed.
Contact Yorkville Chiropractic and Wellness Centre for care of your hyperkyphosis.