Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] Hi! I had a recent MRI that showed severe thoracic spinal stenosis on C7-T1 to T2 levels. MRI also shows bone spurs on these areas. Ive had cervical fusions done on C5-C6-C7 five yrs ago also due to stenosis and disc bulging. My left side is mostly affected. More than a year ago, I started feeling sharp pain on my left chest, sharp pain inside the breast area and to the side towards the armpit. I also have pain on my left elbow, heaviness feeling on my wrist and numbness on my 3 fingers from the pinky to middle finger. My primary doctor sent me to a cardiologist but all the cardio tests I did showed normal. I read that thoracic spine stenosis also affects the chest area. Are those pains Im feeling on the chest area symptoms of the thoracic spine stenosis?  I also still have burning pain on my left shoulder closer to the neck and spasms and pain on the upper back despite having surgery done on the cervical spine.  I dont want anymore surgery but if severe thoracic stenosis is left untreated could I become paralyzed? I read that surgery on thoracic stenosis has higher morbidity and mortality rate than cervical and lumbar surgeries thats why Im hesitant to do surgery. Thank you for your time.
[|AI|]  Hi, Thank you for posting your query. Yes, it is possible for thoracic spine stenosis to cause pain and tingling in the chest area. The symptoms that could occur due to thoracic spine stenosis depends on the degree of stenosis. If it is severe, it may result in weakness of both legs. Severe paralysis is uncommon. I agree with you that it is not worthwhile considering second surgery on cervical spine, as it is technically more challenging and there are higher risk of complications due to surgery. For symptom relief, you could take pregabalin capsules and undergo physiotherapy. I hope it helps. Please get back if you require any additional information. Wishing you good health, Chat Doctor. Ly/