The thoracic herniated disc is located in the upper back.   Thoracic herniated discs are not as common as the lumbar or cervical herniated disc.  This is because there is generally less pressure and motion in this segment of the spine.

A thoracic herniated disc occurs when the inner gel-like substance of any of the 12 vertebral discs of the thoracic spine leaks out of the inside of the disc.  This puts pressure on a nerve root that creates upper back pain along with other symptoms, such as shooting pain or numbness.    The type of pain caused will depend on which nerve is receiving this pressure.  It will also depend on if the spinal cord itself has pressure being placed on it.

A herniated disc could be the cause of mild to severe back pain.  The first step in determining the cause of back pain is to contact a doctor.  At this point, a doctor will perform an initial exam that will consist of a medical history and physical exam.

Initial Exam

After the medical history and physical exam are performed, a diagnosis of a possible herniated disc will be considered if there is irritation of one or more spinal nerves.   In this initial exam, if there is any loss of strength, sensation, or reflexes, the doctor will likely begin further investigation into determining if there is a herniated disc.  At this point, further tests and visits will be scheduled.  There will likely not be any more tests done during this visit.