What Is the Thoracic Spine?
Thoracic Spine is the middle section of the spinal column, located between the cervical spine in the neck and the lumbar spine in the lower back. It contains the vertebrae that connect with the ribs and helps support the chest, protect the spinal cord, and coordinate movement between the upper and lower body.
Quick Facts About Thoracic Spine
Category
Spinal region
Used for
Assessing mid-back movement and discomfort
Common confusion
The thoracic spine is not the lumbar spine
Also called
Mid-back spine, Thoracic region
Often discussed with
Back Pain Treatment
Key Takeaways About Thoracic Spine
- It sits between the neck and lower back.
- Rib connections distinguish this spinal region.
- Mid-back pain does not always begin in the spine.
How Thoracic Spine Works
Thoracic Spine movement comes from the connected vertebrae, discs, joints, muscles, and ligaments in the middle back. Each vertebra provides a point of support while the rib connections help form the back of the chest. These structures work together during breathing, reaching, turning, and changes in posture.
Related glossary terms: Cervical Spine, Lumbar Spine, Vertebra.
A clinical assessment may compare motion from the thoracic spine with movement in the cervical spine and lumbar spine. The examination can include posture, tenderness, active range of motion, and how nearby joints and muscles respond to movement. This information helps distinguish a local mid-back concern from discomfort referred from another area.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor McDonough team
When we assess the thoracic spine during Back Pain Treatment, we review posture, active movement, tenderness, and the relationship between the mid-back and nearby regions. Our team also considers rib motion and muscle tension because those findings can change how a person moves through daily activities.
Thoracic Spine in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person with mid-back discomfort after extended desk work may show limited rotation and increased muscle tension around the thoracic spine. During Back Pain Treatment, the assessment can focus on how posture, spinal motion, and rib movement relate to the reported symptoms.
Related Services
Related Terms
Cervical Spine
Cervical Spine is the upper section of the vertebral column, located in the neck between the…
Lumbar Spine
Lumbar Spine is the lower section of the spinal column between the thoracic spine and the…
Vertebra
A vertebra is a single bone in the spinal column that helps support the body, protect…
Facet Joint
A facet joint is a small paired joint at the back of the spine that connects…
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