What is T4 Syndrome (Back Pain problem)? Symptoms & its Diagnosing Procedure

What is T4 Syndrome (Back Pain Problem)

Thoracic

What is T4 Syndrome (back pain problem)? Symptoms, Diagnosis and its significance?

The upper back (thoracic spine) comprises of 12 bones known as vertebrae. There are 12 thoracic vertebrae named T1 to T12 from the top of the upper back to the bottom of the upper back. During certain movements of the spine, stretching or compressive forces are placed on the facet joints and discs at the T4 level. If these forces are excessive and beyond what the joints can withstand, injury to the facet joints or discs may occur, this results in irritation or damage to the adjacent nerves at the T4 level and the patient experiences diffuse arm pain, pins and needles or numbness in the upper arm this leads to T4 syndrome.

Signs and symptoms 

  • Diffuse arm pain
  • Sensory symptoms such as pins and needles or numbness in the upper arm.
  • Pain in the upper back and occasionally in neck
  • Symptoms may develop suddenly during the causative activity.
  • Symptoms are typically felt in one arm or on one side of the upper back although occasionally both sides may be affected.
  • Pain may also be referred into the shoulder blade, ribs and chest.
  • Muscle spasm, stiffness and restricted spinal movement

Aggravating factors

  • Twisting
  • Lifting
  • Arching backwards
  • Bending forwards or sideways
  • Sitting for prolonged periods of time
  • Coughing or sneezing

How do doctors diagnose T4 syndrome?

To diagnose T4 syndrome, the doctor will ask your child to lie on his or her back and exhale deeply. The doctor will then press down with a hand over the stomach area and perform an active straight leg raise. If the pain is only in one spot, it is likely to be T4 syndrome.

How do physiotherapist diagnose T4 syndrome?

The front of the neck, where your thyroid gland is located, contains the main nerves and blood vessels that pass between your throat and your brain. This area is called the “carotid triangle.” When you feel for a pulse in this area, you are in the T4 region of your neck and thorough a examination from a physiotherapist is usually sufficient to diagnose T4 syndrome. MRI or CT scan may be needed to confirm diagnosis.

Are you looking for a physiotherapy treatment for your T4 syndrome?

Contact progressive care physiotherapy and rehabiliation center for more details.

Risk Factors

  • Poor posture
  • Thoracic spine stiffness
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Poor core stability
  • Muscle weakness or tightness
  • Inappropriate lifting technique
  • Prolong sitting,
  • Repeated bending,
  • Activities involving the use of hands in front of the body

How can physiotherapy treatment for T4 syndrome be done?

T4 Syndrome, also known as thoracic outlet syndrome, is a set of symptoms caused by compression or irritation of the brachial plexus. The pain is felt in the neck, shoulder and upper arm and it can also be associated with numbness or tingling in these areas. Physiotherapy treatment can help patients to deal with these symptoms.

Different types of treatments for T4 Syndrome in physiotherapy

  • Myofascial release
  • Manual therapy to thoracic spine
  • Electrotherapy
  • Postural correction
  • Taping
  • Dry needling
  • Ergonomics
  • Life style modification
  • Pilates
  • Strengthening exercises

Check out these links for relevant information: Sports physiotherapy, paediatric neuro, Neurological physiotherapy

Progressive Care Physiotherapy

Progressive Care Physiotherapy Management is the best service in the physiotherapy industry. It is known for providing the best service and cutting-edge technology to help speed up recovery, while also being able to offer various treatment options that are tailored to your specific needs.

For More details call us on 9618906780

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