What can you do for degenerative changes in the thoracic spine?
What can you do for degenerative changes in the thoracic spine?
In many patients, thoracic degenerative disc disease is treated conservatively with anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, non-impact aerobic exercises (e.g., walking or bicycling), and physical therapy.
How is thoracic degeneration treated?
In most patients, thoracic disc degeneration is treated non-surgically. Non-impact aerobic exercise (walking, bicycling), back and core strengthening are typically recommended with a physical therapist.
What exercise is best for degenerative disc disease?
Regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, or taking a low-impact aerobics class, has been shown to help relieve pain, promote a healthy body weight, and improve overall strength and mobility—all important factors in managing DDD.
What exercises should I avoid with degenerative disc disease?
Low-impact exercise is key. Try walking, water aerobics, yoga, Pilates, and stretching. Lifting heavy weights or running marathons might not be a good idea if you have significant disc degeneration or many DDD symptoms.
What causes thoracic disc degeneration?
Aging is the most common cause of disc degeneration. As the body ages the discs start to lose fluid and dehydrate. The discs start to narrow and lose their height, compromising their ability to absorb shock and stress. The outer fibrous annular rings may begin to crack and tear, weakening the disc walls.
What does mild degenerative changes of the thoracic spine mean?
The phrase “degenerative changes” in the spine refers to osteoarthritis of the spine. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Doctors may also refer to it as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis in the spine most commonly occurs in the neck and lower back.
What foods should you avoid with degenerative disc disease?
Agents of Inflammation
- Sugars (and processed sugars).
- Vegetable oil (and other processed oils).
- Potato chips.
- Fried foods.
- Refined flours.
- Artificial sweeteners.
- Saturated fats.
- Processed meats (i.e. bacon, bologna, hot dogs) and animal proteins.
How can I strengthen my core with degenerative disc disease?
Lower Trunk Rotation
- Lie on your back in the hook lying position (knees bent and feet flat on the floor).
- Rotate your knees to 1 side, holding them for 3 to 5 seconds.
- While contracting your abdominal muscles, slowly rotate your knees to the other side and hold for 3 to 5 seconds.
- Repeat up to 10 times on both sides.
