T7-T8 Herniated Disc Symptoms

Annulitis refers to the inflammation of the annulus fibrosus, the outer ring-like structure of an intervertebral disc. This condition can result from disc degeneration or trauma

For those asking what does a herniated disc feel like, a herniated disc exhibits localized pain in the affected spinal region. For instance, inflammation at the T7-T8 level may cause mid-back discomfort that intensifies with movement.

The inflammatory process can compromise the structural integrity of the disc, exacerbating a herniation. This degeneration can, in some instances, apply pressure on adjacent nerves or the spinal cord, which we will discuss next.

Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root is compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling along the affected nerve pathway. 

At the T7-T8 level, thoracic radiculopathy may manifest as a sharp, radiating pain wrapping around the chest or abdomen. Patients may also experience sensory changes, like numbness or tingling in the torso, and in rare cases, muscle weakness. 

Since the thoracic spine has less mobility compared to the cervical and lumbar regions, nerve root compression is less common but still possible.

Myelopathy refers to spinal cord dysfunction caused by compression, often due to a herniated disc pulposus pressing against the cord. 

Symptoms may include difficulty walking, loss of balance, and coordination issues that can progressively worsen over time. In more advanced cases, thoracic myelopathy can lead to bowel or bladder dysfunction, and even partial paralysis if left untreated.

A protruded disc occurs when the outer layer of the disc, the annulus fibrosus, remains intact but extends beyond its normal boundaries. While a protruded disc may not always produce severe symptoms, its presence can indicate early-stage disc degeneration.

An extruded disc occurs when the annulus fibrosus ruptures, allowing the inner nucleus pulposus to escape into the spinal canal. It is more severe than a protruded disc but less worrisome than a sequestered disc.

A sequestered disc occurs when a fragment of the nucleus pulposus migrates within the spinal canal. This free-floating fragment can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to multiple symptoms.

Our findings show that intervertebral discs lose hydration and elasticity with age, making them more susceptible to degeneration and herniation. 

The thoracic spine is naturally more stable than the cervical and lumbar regions, but age-related changes can still weaken discs, increasing the likelihood of a T7-T8 herniation.

High-impact trauma, like falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries, can lead to thoracic disc herniation. In fact, it is the most common cause of t7-t8 herniation.

Chronic poor posture, repetitive bending, and twisting, or prolonged heavy lifting can place ongoing stress on the thoracic spine, contributing to gradual disc degeneration and potential herniation. 

Occupations or activities involving excessive spinal strain, like construction work or gymnastics, may increase the likelihood of a thoracic disc herniation.

A thoracic discectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the herniated portion of the disc to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

While commonly recommended, a thoracic discectomy comes with high risk. Some include spinal cord injury, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and post-surgical complications.

Due to the anatomical proximity to the lungs, thoracic discectomy can also lead to pulmonary complications, including breathing difficulties during recovery.

Based on our observations, thoracic spinal fusion is another surgical option that involves fusing two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and eliminate movement at the affected disc space. 

However, this procedure does not always address the underlying source of pain.

One of the major downsides of spinal fusion is the increased risk of adjacent segment disease (ASD), where the vertebrae above or below the fused section experience accelerated degeneration as a result of increased mechanical stress. 

Additionally, patients undergoing thoracic fusion often experience reduced spinal flexibility and prolonged recovery periods.

Given the risks associated with traditional discectomy and fusion, many patients seek minimally invasive alternatives that provide permanent pain relief without the complications of open surgery.

Deuk Laser Disc Repair is a minimally invasive, laser-assisted procedure developed by Dr. Ara Deukmedjian. Unlike traditional surgeries, this technique does not require cutting muscle, bone, or ligaments, making it a safer and more effective alternative for treating T7-T8 herniated discs.

During this procedure, a small incision is made and a laser is used to precisely remove the nucleus material from the tear. This is achieved without damaging surrounding tissue. 

Our research indicates that Deuk Laser Disc Repair has a 95% success rate, with no reported complications in over 1,300 patients treated over 15 years. 

Unlike fusion surgery, this approach eliminates the risk of adjacent segment disease and allows for a faster recovery. Since this procedure is outpatient-based, patients avoid lengthy hospital stays, prolonged rehabilitation, and the risks associated with general anesthesia.