Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

t8-t9 disc herniation

I have been diagnosed with a large disc herniation at t8-t9(MRI).  I have pain radiating around my rib cage which is relentless and frequent muscle spasms around the disc area.  I can barely use my arms as it aggravates the problem and sets me back.  My surgeon had informed me that the surgery is very complicated and dangerous and does not want to do anything unless he is sure this will not improve with time.  He also infomed me that 3 out of 4  of these herniations will get better on there own without sugery.  Has anyone gotten better with one of these, has anyone had the surgery?  These are rare and no one seems to be able to give me answers.  I don't know if I should be active or do nothing, physio is giving me mixed messages and state they have never seen one of these before.  
163 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
who is your surgeon because in ky I was told by other doctors that its complicated and that not to many doctors will perform thoracic surgery
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Have had disc against spinal chord for 10yrs but little pain due to Meds for neck pain (have had fusio c4-c7) of pain Meds 200 mg tramadol twice a day, fentanyl patch100 micrograms, and endone as required. Now have thoracic pain caused by pinched nerve at T8 which also is causing whole of body  hyperhidrosis and severe rib cramps where the floating ribs lift about 2 inches
Helpful - 0
7721494 tn?1431627964
If this is facet syndrome, then you are in luck as there's an effective interventional treatment (medial branch neurolysis) that will relieve a large part of the pain.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi everyone.

I have found it very interesting reading your experiences.

I have been experiencing severe electric shock type pain in my mid spine and stiffness in waking for about 12 months. This eases off through the day.
However, for about 6 months I have been experiencing burning/ aching and pinching type pains around my right rib cage and into upper right abdo. They started out lasting around a week each month, but it's now become constant.
All blood tests and scans of abdo and chest were normal and I am just now waiting for an MRI of my whole spine.
No pain killers have eased it at all. It is better in the morning, and worse as the day progresses. Worse on sitting and driving. The only thing that helps is a warm bath and dry needing of the little tight, painful spots in my upper right back muscle. However, the relief only lasts for mins after I stop.
I also get tingling around the upper back and ribs, like ants walking over my skin.
I'm desperate to find out what is causing this. My GP thinks is facet joint dysfunction.

It's interesting seeing your symptoms, as this the closest I've seen to someone describing how I feel. It's so odd and diffuse that I struggle to describe what it is like to anyone.

Thanks
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hello watto1, nice to hear you are doing so well after two surgeries! Can I ask what your doctors name was and where were you operated? I'm having issues with t6/7 and considering surgery.
Helpful - 0
1043790 tn?1297004644
No need for that. Sounds extreme.

Just a tube drain and bag for the first 36-48 hours.

I only stayed 2x nights in hosp.each time, any longer and I'd be addicted to the morphine, it's good, can't argue that.

Was far less nervous for the 2nd surgery and won't hesitate to do again in future if necessary
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Back & Neck Community

Top Pain Answerers
Avatar universal
st. louis, MO
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Find out how beta-blocker eye drops show promising results for acute migraine relief.
Could it be something you ate? Lack of sleep? Here are 11 migraine triggers to look out for.
Find out if PRP therapy right for you.
Tips for preventing one of the most common types of knee injury.
Here are 10 ways to stop headaches before they start.
Tips and moves to ease backaches