How Jessica Overcame a Rare Thoracic Disc Herniation and Got Back to Farming & Family Life

Jessica B., a hardworking mom in her mid-40s with four kids, lives a busy life balancing motherhood and running her family’s farm. Like many moms, she’s used to putting her own needs last and powering through pain. But one day, while hauling a wagon across the farm, it hit a bump. The sudden jolt forced her spine into a flexed and rotated position—and that’s when her back pain began.

At first, Jessica thought it was just a strain that would go away with time. She kept stretching and trying to “push through it,” but the pain wasn’t getting better. In fact, it started interfering with her daily life. Nights were the hardest—she couldn’t get comfortable, and the rib pain would flare up anytime she bent forward. That’s when a friend told her about Back In Motion Physical Therapy & Performance.

When Jessica came to us, she described:

• Pain in her mid-back (thoracic spine) that worsened with flexing or bending forward
• Sharp rib pain during activities and at night
• Difficulty sleeping because of the discomfort
• A growing fear that this pain might stop her from caring for her kids and managing her farm

Unlike many common back issues, Jessica’s case was rare. After a full evaluation, we discovered she had a thoracic spine disc herniation at approximately T8. Thoracic herniations are much less common than lumbar or cervical, but they can be just as limiting—especially for someone as active as Jessica.

Over time, Jessica began to notice that her pain lessened when she avoided flexion-based stretches and stuck with the corrective exercises we prescribed. Her night pain improved, she felt less rib discomfort, and she could finally rest again.

Most importantly, she regained the confidence to get back to what mattered most—running her farm, caring for her kids, and living life without the constant worry of back pain.

Jessica’s story is a reminder that pushing through pain isn’t always the answer. Sometimes, what seems like a “stubborn muscle strain” is something deeper—and getting the right evaluation can make all the difference.

At Back In Motion, we don’t just treat symptoms—we identify the root cause and create a plan tailored to your body and your life, especially if you have a herniated disc.

If you’ve been struggling with back pain that isn’t going away, don’t wait. Inquire about cost and appointment availability today and take the first step toward getting your life back.