what part of the spine affects the ribs
1 Pain caused by joint dysfunction, where the ribs attach to the spine at each level of the thoracic spine, can cause pain. 2  Herniated or degenerative discs. 3  While less common in the thoracic spine, degenerative disc disease or a thoracic herniated disc can be a source of pain. 4  Arthritis.here are several features of the thoracic spine that distinguish it from the lumbar and cervical spine: 1  Limited flexibility. 2  The ribs connected to T11 and T12 at the bottom of the thoracic spine do not attach the sternum in front, but do provide protection for the kidneys in the back of the body.