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.



What is called a disk otherwise known as shock absorbing cushion is situated between each vertebrae pair. The 23 discs which start from the second and third neck vertebrae are named s C2-C3, T5-T6 and L4-L5. in these names the letter 'C' denoted cervical, 'T' means thoracic and the 'L' denotes lumbar and 'S' stands 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.

This condition occurs in the lower back or lumbar spine region, and sometimes affects the cervical and upper back called the thoracic spine too. Applying pressure to the nerve roots, herniated discs cause lots of pain and numbness in the affected area. The gel like material comes out of the discs once the discs rapture. Normal x-rays are unable to identify the disorder so MRI or CT scans are used.

Herniated T5 T6 means the disorder or injury is done to the thoracic spine. Generally muscle relaxes and pain killers are administered as medicines for this injury. Physical therapy is the best way to treat herniated T5 T6 as no real medicine can cure this injury it can only suppress the pain and symptoms. In severe cases surgery is advised but not always. Complete bed rest along with physical exercises can reduce pain and give 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.

With proper physical therapy the unstable segment and neutral zone can be controlled. This therapy helps in increasing mobility and allows the patient to walk, climb stairs etc freely. It can improve physical function and prevent disability and give balance to the affected area. The therapy must be concentrated around the muscles, bones, ligaments, nerves etc.

This therapy can be received in hospitals or out patient clinics and fitness centers. A good and experienced physical therapist should be chosen and it is always good to choose someone recommended by friends or relatives. Health insurance companies and family physicians also might suggest good therapists who might do the best therapy for you. Check to find out if he is properly qualified for the job and if he has the necessary certification. Faulty therapy can lead to dangerous physical conditions and make the patient immobile. So care should be taken while selecting the best physical therapist.