Question
Hello,
I'd appreciate your opinion on what I suspect to be a thoracic disk problem.
I have had three MRI's in the last 6 months, one of neck [multilvel degenerative disc disease] and two of lumbar spine [extrusion at L1-L2].
I am currently under the care of a physician at the Spine Clinic who ordered the lumbar MRI and will be going for a Diagnostic Nerve Block of L2 to confirm [or not] the symptoms of radiculopathy. These present as pain in the pubic bone, pelvic floor, lower abdominal, lower rib and gastric pains.
The rib pain, sometimes moving across the upper quadrant like a band, has become relentless and severe, worse after movement and when lying or sitting. I've not read anything which indicates this is this is indicative of L1-L2.
My GP and Gyne have ordered every test imaginable to investigate visceral pathology and all have returned negative.
Does this sound like it could be a thoracic problem in addition to upper lumbar?
Would you recommend further investigation [MRI?] of this area?
The rib/gastric pain appeared about six months ago, about the same time as the pubic pain. It is not controlled by heavy pain killers, seems to be more severe than before.
I'm concerned that the nerve block will be only partially effective/diagnostic....the Spine Clinic Specialist does not plan any further investigations if symptoms not relieved.
Thank you for your comments.

Answer
Dear Kathy,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661,Roscoe Village 60618, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says...
I see no reason why they can't try a diagnostic block to the Thoracic joint that may innervate that area. Direct palpation(forced pressure)to the suspected vertebrae sometimes may increase symptoms at that moment-helping identify that area.
Perhaps the rib symptoms are arthritic & inflaming the muscles & joints of that area. Osteoarthritis would produce normal labs.
Further investigation could be with someone who practices physical medicine before an MRI.

Hope this Helps & Good Luck!
The Chicago Podiatrists of AnkleNFootCenters.com are specialists in orthopedics and sports medicine.
We are located in Chicago & Elmhurst

Dr George Tsatsos & Svetlana Zats
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661


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