L4/L5 hernia - T7/T8

Hi all, I’ve had a hernia since I was 14 and my symptoms showed up in 2023. The pain was so bad I couldn’t even walk.

Since then I’ve started Pilates and strength training which has really helped, and I don’t have pain anymore.

Recently I’ve been forcing myself into positions where I twist due to renovations at home, and my mid-back has been in excruciating pain ever since. I’m scared that I’ve herniated another disc in my mid back but am unsure and will not have time for an MRI anytime soon.

Can anyone explain what a T7/T8 hernia pain feels like and what movement it restricts?

Every time I engage my core, lift something (not necessarily heavy), slightly twist or engage my thoracic area in any way I feel excruciating pain it the T7/T8 region. However I don’t know if this could just be a muscle strain.

I would really appreciate any help! Thank you