Accident Clinics of Memorial park: Understanding Thoracic Disc Bulges After a Car Accident
Thoracic Disc Bulges After a Car Accident
At Accident Clinics of Memorial Park, we often see patients who experience mid-back pain after an auto accident. While neck and lower back injuries are more common, trauma from a collision can also cause a thoracic disc bulge—a condition that affects the middle part of the spine and can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated.
What Is a Thoracic Disc Bulge?
The thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae located in the middle of your back, connecting to your rib cage. When the inner portion of a spinal disc protrudes outward, it is called a disc bulge. If this bulge compresses nearby nerves or the spinal cord, it can lead to pain, numbness, and restricted mobility.
Auto accidents are a leading cause of spinal disc injuries, even if symptoms don’t appear immediately. Learn more about spinal injury evaluations here.
Causes of Thoracic Disc Bulges After a Wreck
Although less mobile than the cervical and lumbar spine, the thoracic region can still be injured during a high-impact event. Causes include:
Whiplash-like motion from seatbelt restraint
Sudden compression or twisting of the spine during a crash
Degenerative changes worsened by trauma
Poor posture post-accident, leading to long-term strain
Even minor fender-benders can create enough force to injure spinal discs. Schedule a free injury assessment.
Symptoms of a Thoracic Disc Bulge
Thoracic disc bulges can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Pain in the middle back or radiating pain around the chest
Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the torso or lower extremities
Difficulty breathing deeply if nerves around the ribs are involved
Trouble standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods
These symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly after a wreck. Don’t wait to get examined—early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.
Exercises to Help Prevent Thoracic Disc Bulges
If you've been cleared by your doctor, the following exercises can help strengthen your thoracic spine and prevent further injury:
1. Thoracic Extension on a Foam Roller
Lie on your back with the foam roller placed under your mid-back.
Gently extend your spine over the roller.
Helps improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
2. Cat-Cow Stretch
Begin on hands and knees.
Alternate between arching (cat) and dipping (cow) your spine.
Enhances flexibility in the spine and surrounding muscles.
3. Wall Angels
Stand against a wall, arms raised to shoulder height.
Slide arms up and down in a controlled motion.
Improves posture and thoracic alignment.
4. Seated Twist Stretch
Sit upright and gently rotate your torso to each side.
Loosens up tight mid-back muscles.
Always consult a licensed medical provider before starting any rehabilitation program. We offer custom rehab plans post-accident.
Why Early Care Matters
Ignoring thoracic pain after an accident can lead to long-term complications. At Accident Clinics of Memorial Park, we specialize in auto accident injuries, offering comprehensive care that includes diagnostics, physical therapy, and pain management.
📍 Conveniently located near Memorial Park in Oklahoma City
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