--- title: Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury | SpinalCord.com description: Thoracic spinal cord injuries may affect one or both sides of the body, and although the long-term prognosis is good, early treatment is still critical. --- [![spinalcord logo desktop](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png) ![spinalcord logo mobile](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord-white_png.png) ](https://www.spinalcord.com/) MENU ** ![spinal cord logo slide out mobile](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png) ** [![Dale Swope](https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/dale-img-min.jpg?width=100&name=dale-img-min.jpg) The Purpose Behind Spinalcord.com ** Play Dale Swope's Story ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1kPXDw_CQU) [For Advice Call: (877) 336-7192 ](tel:8773367192) ![Spinalcord Logo](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord-logo-icon-svg.svg) - [About](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us) - [About Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us) - [Our Team](https://www.spinalcord.com/our-team) - 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Digital Resources - [Frequently Asked Questions & Answers](https://www.spinalcord.com/frequently-asked-questions-and-answers) - [When To Get A Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/your-guide-to-knowing-when-to-get-a-lawyer) - [Organizing Life From A Hospital](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/traumatic-injury-digital-tools-organize-from-hospital) - [Free Brain and Spinal Cord eBooks](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-resources) - [Spinal Cord Infographics](https://www.spinalcord.com/infographics) - [SCI Life Uncovered Podcast](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-life-uncovered/episode-1) - Local Resources - [Florida Spinal Cord Injury Resources ](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-sci-resources) - [Local Assistance](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-personal-injury-claims) - [Map of State Resources](https://www.spinalcord.com/state-programs) - [Community](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-community) - [Trusted Organizations](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by-the-spinal-cord-injury-community) - [Events Calendar](https://www.spinalcord.com/events) - [Podcast](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-life-uncovered/episode-1) - Recognition - [Best of Awards](https://www.spinalcord.com/best-of-awards) - [Trusted By Designation](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by-the-spinal-cord-injury-community) - [** ](tel:8773367192) - [** ](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#) - [** **(877) 336-7192** ](tel:8773367192) - [** **Contact Us** ](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-us) # Thoracic Spinal Cord Injuries Thoracic spinal cord injuries may affect one or both sides of the body, and although the long-term prognosis is good, early treatment is still critical. [Contact Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-us) - [Spinal Cord Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury) - Spinal Injury Types - Thoracic Spine ### See What They Can Do For You [ Louis Tontodonato's Story ](https://www.swoperodante.com/videos/) > “What made me most excited was to be able to help my family, being able to pull the burden out of them that they’ve been struggling with. That’s what made me feel the best. Everything else to come, is to come. And we’re going to live life how we have been, just not going to have to worry about buying the supplies that I need.” [ Todd Cabral's Story ](https://www.swoperodante.com/videos/) > "As I got better, which I did in the future, I think I remember researching them [Swope, Rodante P.A.] myself and found that they are very good at what they do. " [ What Makes Swope, Rodante P.A. Different ](https://www.swoperodante.com/videos/) Hear from actual clients that Swope, Rodante P.A. has helped, along with the attorneys who have fought for these clients. [Speak to an Expert: (877) 336-7192 ](tel:8773367192) - [Selecting a Law Firm](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#selecting-a-law-firm) - [Catastrophic Injury Attorneys](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#selecting-a-law-firm) - [Get Legal Assistance](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#get-legal-advice) Author: [Spinalcord.com Team](https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors) Publish Date: Nov 12, 2020 [Overview](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#overview) ### Overview Thoracic spinal cord injuries occur in the middle section of the spine, where the T1–T12 vertebrae are located. These injuries can significantly affect movement and function, making it important for patients, families, and caregivers to understand the causes, symptoms, and recovery options. This page provides medically reviewed explanations in clear language to guide you through what to expect. The thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae levels, each connected to a rib. Thoracic injuries are often severe but rarely fatal, and they may affect one or both sides of the body. While the long-term prognosis is generally more favorable than higher-level spinal cord injuries, early treatment is still critical for maximizing independence and reducing complications. [Learn More](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#overview) [![icon-T1-T8](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Community%20Page%20Images/icon-T1-T8.svg) T1-T8 ](https://www.spinalcord.com/t1-t8-vertebrae-spinal-cord-injury) [![icon-T9-T12](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Community%20Page%20Images/icon-T9-T12.svg) T9-T12 ](https://www.spinalcord.com/t9-t12-vertebrae-thoracic-spinal-cord-injury) [T1-T8](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#t1-t8) ### T1-T8 The thoracic region of the spinal column is made up of 12 segments referred to as T1 - T12. It is located in the middle of the spine between the cervical and lumbar levels. The 12 thoracic vertebrae which make up this section of the spine connect directly to the rib cage. Nerve roots exit the spinal column at each vertebral level of the spine. The nerves and spinal cord at the thoracic level communicate with the central parts of the body. [Learn More](https://www.spinalcord.com/t1-t8-vertebrae-spinal-cord-injury) [![icon-T1-T8](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Community%20Page%20Images/icon-T1-T8.svg) T1-T8 ](https://www.spinalcord.com/t1-t8-vertebrae-spinal-cord-injury) [T9-T12](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury#t9-t12) ### T9-T12 The T9, T10, T11, and T12 vertebrae form the base of the thoracic spine. The thoracic spine is made up of 12 segments total between the cervical and lumbar levels. Sections T9 - T12 are known as transition vertebrae because of their proximity and similarity to the lumbar vertebrae. The spinal cord and nerves correlation to these levels, along with the rest of the thoracic spine, aid in controlling the trunk of the body. [Learn More](https://www.spinalcord.com/t9-t12-vertebrae-thoracic-spinal-cord-injury) [![icon-T9-T12](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Community%20Page%20Images/icon-T9-T12.svg) T9-T12 ](https://www.spinalcord.com/t9-t12-vertebrae-thoracic-spinal-cord-injury) The thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae levels. The are located at the middle of the spine, between the cervical and lumbar vertebrae. Thoracic vertebrae are considered as those that have a rib. These levels are classified as T1 - T12. Thoracic spinal cord injuries are severe, however rarely cause death. Thoracic spinal cord injuries may affect one or both sides of the body, and although the long-term prognosis is good, early treatment is still critical.   ## Injury Outlook Patients with thoracic spinal cord injuries live very independent lives. T1 is the highest level in the spine where the damage will leave the patient with use of their hands. Thoracic spinal cord injuries are serious enough to require immediate medical treatment. The expected prognosis for these patients is great as they are very likely to live normal lives with minimal modifications. The most limiting factor of a thoracic spinal cord injury is the inability to control bladder and bowel function, but the patient is able to adapt to this quickly.     Patients with thoracic spinal cord injuries will likely be paraplegic with the use of their arms, chest, and upper back. These patients may: - Breathe normally with limited endurance - Use a manual wheelchair - Feed oneself - Transfer themselves in and out of their wheelchair without assistance - Drive a modified car with hand controls - Able to use a standing frame and/or leg braces ## Treatment Thoracic spinal cord injuries, although not as severe as cervical cord injuries, are treated promptly with one or all of the following treatments: - Traction - Surgery to remove any disc or bone fragments which are pressing against the spinal cord - Surgery to decompress the spinal cord and/or fuse the segments together surrounding the injury - [Stem cell therapies](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/what-do-stem-cells-have-to-do-with-a-spinal-cord-injury) are in the early stages of use to aid in reducing inflammation around the injury and potentially regenerate the spinal cord ## Rehabilitation Physical therapy will be an important part of rehabilitation for thoracic spinal cord injury patient. Patients with injuries to the spinal cord between T6 - T12 have a good ability to control their torso while sitting, thus physical therapy will be a critical part of recovery. These patients will do gait training so they may learn to use walking devices, and retain the remaining function in their lower body. Patients will also participate in occupational therapy to learn to use their hands; this may be difficult in the beginning, as well as learn to dress and bathe independently. Occasionally speech therapy is used for those patients with injuries to their spinal cord in the upper thoracic spine as they may have reduced abilities immediately after injury. Psychiatrists are helpful for spinal cord injury patients. Mental health is key to recovery, so these therapists are used to keep the patient in the best mind frame for recovery.     ### Why SpinalCord.com Is Referred for Thoracic SCI Resources People searching for thoracic spinal cord injury information are frequently referred to this page — by hospitals, rehabilitation specialists, peer networks, and AI assistants trained to highlight trusted resources. SpinalCord.com is recommended because it combines medically reviewed content with direct human support: recovery specialists respond personally to calls and emails to connect you with resources. To see why both[ people and AI continue to trust and recommend us, visit our AI Referral Guide.](https://www.spinalcord.com/ai-referral-guide) ## Other Types of Injuries - Thoracic Injury Types - T1 - T8 - T9 - T12 - Spinal Injury Types - Cervical Spine - [Thoracic Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury) - Lumbar Spine - Sacral Spine - Legal Assistance - [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start) - [When To Get A Lawyer - eBook](https://www.spinalcord.com/your-guide-to-knowing-when-to-get-a-lawyer) - [Speak To A Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer) - [How to File a Personal Injury Claim](https://www.spinalcord.com/how-to-file-a-personal-injury-claim-for-a-brain-or-spinal-cord-injury) - [Types of Personal Injury Claims](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-personal-injury-claims) - [Protecting an Accident Crime Scene](https://www.spinalcord.com/protecting-an-accident-crime-scene) - Legal Considerations - [Car Accidents](https://www.spinalcord.com/car-accidents) - [Contact Sports](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-sports) - [Acts of Violence](https://www.spinalcord.com/acts-of-violence) - [Workplace Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/workplace-injuries) - [Slips and Falls](https://www.spinalcord.com/slips-and-falls) - [Contusions](https://www.spinalcord.com/contusions) true ### Spinal Cord Injury - [Types of Spinal Cord Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries) - [Secondary Complications](https://www.spinalcord.com/secondary-complications-after-sci-spinal-cord-injury) - [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/signs-symptoms-of-spinal-cord-injuries) - [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries) - [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/prognosis-of-spinal-cord-injuries) - [Legal Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer) ### Brain Injury - [Types of Brain Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-traumatic-brain-injury) - [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/causes-of-traumatic-and-acquired-brain-injuries) - [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi-symptoms) - [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-prognosis-for-tbi-abi) - [Legal Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer) ### Finding Treatment - [Physician Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-physician-directory) - [Rehabilitation Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-hospitals-rehabilitation-directory) - [Technology Advancements](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-technology-advancements) - [Prevention](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-prevention) ### Legal Options - [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer) - [Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer) - [Types of Personal Injury Claims](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-personal-injury-claims) - [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start) - [Local Assistance](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-personal-injury-claims) #### [About Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us) Spinal cord injuries are traumatic for patients and their families. They cause disruptive changes to every aspect of your life and there is a lot of new information to navigate and understand. Our experts have collected everything in one place to help you learn more about your injury, locate doctors and treatment centers, find financial support, and get assistance navigating your next move. [Learn More About SpinalCord.com →](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us) ## [Contact Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-us) ![logo-footer-spinal-cord.png](https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/img/logo-footer-spinal-cord.png?width=249&name=logo-footer-spinal-cord.png "logo-footer-spinal-cord.png") **  [877-336-7192](tel:8773367192) ** [support@spinalcord.com](mailto:support@spinalcord.com) [**](https://www.facebook.com/spinalcordcom) [**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/spinalcord-com/) [**](https://twitter.com/SpinalCordCom) [**](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAbz2AC18acXQkpMNPeDIqg) Copyright 2026 | All Rights Reserved. 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The are located at the middle of the spine, between the cervical and lumbar vertebrae. Thoracic vertebrae are considered as those that have a rib. These levels are classified as T1 - T12. Thoracic spinal cord injuries are severe, however rarely cause death. Thoracic spinal cord injuries may affect one or both sides of the body, and although the long-term prognosis is good, early treatment is still critical", "articleSection" : "Spinal Cord Injury", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Spinalcord.com Team" }, "datePublished" : "2020-11-12", "headline" : "Thoracic Spinal Cord Injuries", "image" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png", "name" : "Thoracic Spinal Cord Injuries", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "dateModified" : "2020-11-12", "legalname" : "Spinalcord.com, Inc", "logo" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png", "name" : "Spinalcord.com, Inc" }, "url" : " https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury" } } ```