Last month we discussed T2 and T3, the second and third bones located in the upper back. Today, we'll review T4 and T5, and their role in your health.
T4 and T5 are part of your thoracic spine, located in the mid-back region just behind your chest.
T4 (Thoracic Vertebra 4, not the thyroid hormone) sits roughly behind your upper chest, in line with the nipples. Nerves exiting here connect primarily to aspects of the heart, lungs, and the upper respiratory system. When T4 is functioning properly, nerve signals travel freely, supporting healthy breathing, heart rhythm, and upper back mobility. If T4 is misaligned, you might experience upper back stiffness, shortness of breath, shallow breathing, chest discomfort, fatigue, or even heart palpitations.
T5 (Thoracic Vertebra 5, not the Call of Duty Black Ops I codename) lies just below T4 and has nerve connections influencing the liver, solar plexus, and parts of the digestive system. Proper alignment of T5 helps maintain healthy digestion, stable energy levels, and mid-back comfort. When T5 is out of alignment, you may notice indigestion, bloating, heartburn, low energy, or tension between the shoulder blades. Sometimes, these symptoms appear without obvious back pain.
Both vertebrae also play a mechanical role—supporting posture, protecting the spinal cord, and anchoring rib attachments for stable breathing. Misalignments in T4 or T5 can compress or irritate spinal nerves, disrupting communication between your brain and these organs, which can lead to both localized discomfort and systemic effects.
Through chiropractic adjustments, we restore normal motion and nerve function in these segments, reducing strain on affected organs and helping your body return to a balanced, healthy state.
Make a commitment to your health today.
Stay well adjusted,
Dr. Dan Kammer
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