Types of Thoracic Spinal Stenosis

The most common form of spinal stenosis is Foraminal Stenosis.  This is the space where the nerve root leaves the canal through a side hole (lateral foramen). This area can be decreased by a bulging or herniated disc, bone spurs cartilage fragment, scar tissue or any other unnatural growth or obstruction that can press on the nerve root. Also known as lateral spinal stenosis.

 

Foraminal narrowing: This is a common result of disc degeneration causing the foraminal canal to narrow. Other causes of foraminal narrowing include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, chronic meningitis, tumors, and neurofibromas.

 

Thoracic spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal which compresses the nerves. This is a result of degeneration of the facet joints, and degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the spine. Bone spurs (osteophytes) may also develop which usually grow into the spinal canal.  The facet joints also enlarge as they become arthritic which also decreases the space allowed for the nerve roots.

 

Degenerative spondylolisthesis: Degenerative spondylolisthesis (slippage of one vertebra over another) is caused by osteoarthritis of the facet joints.

 

Degenerative scoliosis: (Curvature of the spine)

 

Symptoms in the mid-back (thoracic):

Can cause pain in your mid-back, ribs and chest area with burning, numbness or tingling.