Thoracic herniation - 3 years later...
 

MRI results in 2012: Disc protrusion and annular tear of the left T9-T10 neural foramina.

Since then, my back has "gone out" on several occasions. There are times when the pain is severe but it doesn't go out completely. Other times when it's not necessarily horrible pain but it feels like I am on the verge of losing all mobility.

It is still very localized to that main lower thoracic area so I'm left wondering - will it always feel vulnerable? will I always be at risk of re-injury? If it still feels like this 3 years later, is it time for another look to see if it is getting worse?

Have you had any injections Into the area? I had two lots that gave me a lot of relief.
I have a numb area across my back from the damage to my thoracic discs.
I got that injury in 2003 just before I had a nasty car accident.
It supposed to be a difficult area to treat surgically. I don't fancy complications from that high up, so unless it was life of death I wouldn't entertain it.
I think we all get feelings of vulnerability after injuries. As long as you take steps to keep the muscles working well then you should find it gets real support.