Symptoms | Physiotherapy for thoracic spine nerve root compression

Symptoms

The symptoms of nerve root compression in the thoracic spine are varied and depend on which nerve root is affected. However, a burning or pulling back pain is characteristic, which occurs unilaterally but can radiate into the entire supply area of the affected nerve. Since motor fibers run through the center of the nerve, muscle disorders can occur, ranging from a slight loss of strength, to movement restrictions and even paralysis.

The reflexes are weakened. With advanced damage, sensory disturbances such as tingling or numbness may also occur. In addition, affected persons often suffer from pain in the chest wall and tension at the level of the affected nerve root.

Doctors speak of a so-called hard tension next to the spine. In some cases, the function of the digestive tract is impaired because its fibers pass through the spinal cord of the thoracic spine. When coughing, sneezing or pressing, the pain is intensified by the increase in pressure in the spinal canal. These articles may also be of interest to you:

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Employment ban for nerve root compression

If a pregnant woman suffers nerve root compression in the thoracic spine, she can be banned from employment. Such a ban is anchored in the Maternity Protection Act and protects the health of the pregnant woman and the unborn child. Under no circumstances may the pregnant woman carry more than 10 kg or regularly more than 5 kg.

This would be a danger for the pregnancy and would also increase the discomfort of nerve root compression. If the pregnant woman has an office workstation, a doctor can issue her an individual employment ban.Because regular movement, an upright and gentle posture is elementary in nerve root compression. Outside of a pregnancy, a doctor can issue an expert opinion certifying that certain activities may no longer be performed temporarily or permanently, such as heavy lifting. However, the employer does not necessarily have to comply with the expert opinion.