T4 Syndrome

15 Dec 11 - 10:52 AM

T4 SYNDROME
T4 syndrome typically occurs due to injury to the facet joints or disc at T4 which then affects the nerve root at that level. Injury to these structures can occur during excessive bending, lifting, arching, or twisting movements or due to poor posture. This may occur traumatically or due to repetitive or prolonged forces.
There are several factors that may contribute to the development of T4 syndrome. These factors need to be assessed and corrected with direction from a chiropractor and may include:

•    poor posture
•    thoracic spine stiffness
•    a sedentary lifestyle
•    poor core stability
•    muscle weakness or tightness
•    inappropriate lifting technique
•    a lifestyle involving large amounts of sitting, bending, lifting or activities involving the use of hands in front of the body

The recovery time for patients with T4 syndrome may vary from case to case depending on a variety of factors such as the severity of injury and compliance with chiropractic advice. With ideal treatment, patients may be pain free in as little as several days, although typically this may take 2 – 3 weeks. It is important to note, however, that injured tissue takes approximately six weeks to restore the majority of its strength in ideal healing conditions. Care must therefore be taken when returning to activity during this period. In severe cases or in those patients who do not rest adequately from aggravating activities, symptoms may persist for many months or even years.
Chiropractic for T4 syndrome
Chiropractic for patients with this condition can hasten the healing process, ensure an optimal outcome, and reduce the likelihood of future recurrence. Treatment may involve:

•    Soft tissue massage
•    Mobilization
•    Manipulation
•    Electrotherapy (e.g. ultrasound)
•    Postural taping or bracing
•    Dry needling
•    Education
•    Activity modification advice
•    Ergonomic advice
•    The use of a lumbar support for sitting
•    Clinical Pilates
•    exercises to improve flexibility, strength, posture and core stability
•    A gradual return to activity program


 TIP OF THE MONTH
It's important for emotional health to maintain your physical health in all the ways you can. So get enough sleep; eat regular, balanced meals; and take time for relaxation as well.

TOWARDS WELLNESS
Haven't got an hour alone? Try a three-minute meditation: close your door, turn off the phone, and then close your eyes. Take deep breaths, focusing on your breath as it goes in and out. If thoughts come to you, just bring yourself back to your breathing. Then think about a beautiful image, a flower, a child's face; look at every detail. Then, gradually, breathe faster and open your eyes.