Out of the numerous types of diseases and disorders that the human body is exposed to the most damaging and painful disorders of them all are spine injuries or damage. The human spinal column consists of 24 vertebrae and this is sub divided into the cervical spine consisting of seven vertebrae, the thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae and the lumbar spine with five vertebrae. The base bone also called the sacrum is situated at the end of the sacrum in the coccyx.

The shock absorbing cushion also referred to as the discs is between each vertebra pair. In the beginning there are 23 discs which start from the second and third neck vertebrae and are called C2-C3, T5-T6 and L4-L5 the letter ‘C’ stand for ‘Cervical’, ‘T’ Stands for ‘Thoracic’, ‘L’ stands for ‘Lumbar’ and ‘S’ for ‘Sacrum’.

Accidents, falls, weak muscles, weak supporting muscles and body mechanics can cause damage to these discs. The outer layer of the disc breaks open and causes disc herniation otherwise known as subligamentous.

Herniated disc occurs generally in the lower back or lumbar spine, and sometimes it affects the cervical and upper back spine called thoracic spine too. Herniated disks pressurize the nerve roots and hence cause a lot of pain and numbness in the affected area. The gel like substance inside the disc comes out and breaks the disc. Herniated disc disorders cannot be identified in normal x-rays so MRI or CT scan is required.

When it is said that the thoracic spine is injured it means that T5 T6 are herniated. The muscles relax when pain killers are administered as medicines for this injury. The best way to cure herniated T5 T6 discs are through physical therapy because there is no real cure through medication however medication can only suppress the pain and symptoms. In severe cases surgery is recommended. Physical exercises and bed rest can provide relief from numbness.

Walking and activities without too much straining can keep the pain at bay. Administering ice pack or hot pack on the affected area atleast 3-4 times a day will relieve muscle tension and pain. Physiotherapy is by far the best treatment that can help with herniated disc disorders. Especially for T5 T6 disorders or injuries are very unbearable but it can be treated.

Proper physical therapy helps in controlling the unstable segment and neutral zone. Physiotherapy helps in increasing mobility in the patient and also allows the patient to start walking and climbing stairs etc freely. It improves physical response and prevents disability and also gives balance to the affected area. The therapy must be focuses around the muscles, bones, ligaments, nerves etc.

This type of therapy can be availed at hospitals or out patient clinics or fitness centers. You need to get a good physical therapist, especially consider those recommended by friends and family. Health insurance companies and physicians are also a good source of information that will help find a good therapist. You need to check if the therapist is qualified for job and has the necessary qualifications. Defective therapy is dangerous and can lead to physical conditions and cause the patient to become immobile. So be careful when selecting a good physical therapist