Thoracic intervertebral contracture is also known as the sprain of the articular facet because the intervertebral joints are also called articular facets. The articular facets connect the vertebrae with each other and give flexibility, without them the movement is rigid and limited.

Thoracic intervertebral contractions can occur if the upper back is excessively rotated or bent forward. This overloads the ligaments that support the joints, causing a sprain of the articular facet, which manifests itself with pain. The pain is often felt about 2 cm from the side of the contracted spine, it can also irradiate at the level of the chest and can be accentuated at the movements of the spine, especially when bending forward.

ANATOMY OF THE SPINE

The spine is composed of a number of 33-34 small bones, called vertebrae, which are stacked (placed) one on top of the other. Ligaments, nerves, muscles and intervertebral discs are all components that support the spine.

The vertebrae connect to each other through the articular facets that are small stabilizing joints, to create a spinal canal that protects the spinal marrow. The spinal nerves travel along this spinal canal to carry messages between the muscles and the brain.The 12 pairs of ribs are attached sideways to the vertebrae of the thoracic spine (the thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae)

➢ repeated bending places a stress on the intervertebral discs, which leads to the degeneration of the articular facet

➢ incorrect posture

➢ twisting movements if the spine is rigid

➢ hypermobility in the spine: if the spine is unstable, sprains may occur at the level of the articular facets.

1. REST
The activities that cause pain will be interrupted and the body will be given the necessary rest for recovery.

2. ICE
Apply ice locally, in the affected area, for 5-10 minutes, 3-5 times a day, to help reduce pain and inflammation. Always put a thin towel between the ice and the area on which it is applied or wrap the ice in a thin towel so as not to irritate the skin.

3. MAINTAINING A CORRECT POSTURE
Poor posture or regular bending forward, over time can lead to pain and other back problems. Thus, it is recommended to maintain a correct posture and minimize the bending of the upper back.

4. PHYSICAL THERAPY
Back extension exercises help correct posture problems. Stretching exercises of the spine are essential for decontracture but also for an increase in the flexibility of the spine. Manual therapy and osteopathic manipulations have very good results in pain caused by intervertebral contracture. Joints become more flexible as stiffness (contracture) is reduced.

➢ Hold a correct posture as much as possible at any time to prevent the placement of undue pressure on the spine.

➢ Give up sedentary lifestyle because it is harmful both for joints that become rigid and for muscles that lose their tone.

➢ Whenever you lift a heavy object from below, bend the legs (similar to the squat position) and push to your feet to lift the object, while your back holds straight.