Questions? Call Toll-Free 1-

Contact us today. We're here for you 7 days a week.

Contact Us By Phone 1-
Am I a Candidate for Surgery? Learn More
Request an MRI Review Submit Information

Spinal Glossary: T

  • T#: The letter T followed by a number identifies a specific vertebra in the thoracic spine. For example, T3 is the 3rd vertebra in the thoracic spine.
  • TENS: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. A form of electrical anesthesia used to block pain perception.
  • thoracic: Mid-upper back, area between the cervical (neck region) and lumbar (low back) spine.
  • traction: Traction applies intermittent or continuous force by mechanical or manual methods to elongate the spine.
  • trigger point injections: Injection of local anesthetic (with or without corticosteroid) into soft tissues (i.e., muscles or ligaments) along the spine or over the back of the pelvis. Generally used for pain control.
  • Tx: Treatment.
  • torn disc: A rupture in the tough exterior of an intervertebral disc, called the annulus fibrosus. This condition can occur as a result of the natural aging process; intervertebral discs tend to dry out and lose flexibility over time, making them more prone to deterioration. Sudden impact from athletic injuries, car accidents, and other forms of trauma also can cause a disc to tear.
  • tai chi: A system of exercise based on the ancient Chinese martial art Tai Chi Quan; emphasizes slow, controlled movements to improve balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, and stamina.
  • thinning disc: The loss of height within an intervertebral disc; typically associated with diminished water content within the nucleus pulposus, which is a natural byproduct of the aging process or a sign of degenerative disc disease.
  • traditional back surgery: Highly invasive surgical procedures designed to correct spinal abnormalities by permanently fusing one or more vertebral segments together; generally accomplished by implanting metal or plastic stabilizing hardware, and, in some cases, bone grafts. Can be performed from the front (anterior), the back (posterior), or the side (posterolateral).
  • Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) : Open back surgery used to alleviate the symptoms produced by a compressed nerve within the lumbar (lower back) region of the spine; involves the replacement of a diseased or damaged intervertebral disc with bone graft.

Need an immediate response?

Our live chat feature allows you to talk instantly with a Patient Care Coordinator.

  • - -

Download your Free info packet on Endoscopic Spine Surgery
& receive our quarterly e-Newsletter.



What is Laser Spine Surgery? Can Laser Spine Institute Help You?

You can get these answers by attending a free educational seminar.

Back to Health

Be inspired, informed and connected.

Expert answers, informational videos and inspiring stories of patients who returned to life at its fullest with Laser Spine Institute.

LaserSpineWellness.com

Patient Reviews and Stories

Natalie Gulbis shares her story about her road to recovery from back pain after minimally invasive surgery.


Learn about Natalie Gulbis's Recovery

Meet our Physicians and Surgeons

Our medical professionals know that you expect excellence in terms of medical attention.

Learn about our physicians and medical staff