UPPER BACK PAIN CAN IMPACT DAILY LIFE
Upper back pain is an issue we often see at Excel Body & Health Clinic. The discomfort experienced in the region between the base of the neck and the bottom of the rib cage can begin suddenly or develop over a longer period and may range from a mild ache to excruciating pain. If left untreated, it may interfere with daily activities and become debilitating.
Simple tasks like sitting, standing, sleeping, or even breathing may become challenging and uncomfortable. The pain may restrict mobility, making it difficult to perform routine activities, participate in physical exercises, or engage in work-related tasks. It may also affect concentration, mood, and overall well-being, leading to decreased productivity and quality of life.
Issues with the upper back are typically less likely than other areas of the back because it is the only part of the spine that has the extra stability of being part of the rib cage and is less mobile. However, upper back pain remains a common issue and one that often requires professional support to improve. At Excel Body & Health Clinic, we are dedicated to helping our patients find improved comfort and functionality and relieve upper back pain.
WHAT IS UPPER BACK PAIN?
When we talk about upper back pain, we are referring to the discomfort that occurs in the area below the cervical spine and above the lumbar spine. This region is called the thoracic spine. As well as comprising the bones, soft tissues, and nerves that make up the spine and rib cage, it also involves muscles that extend along the back, including the rhomboids, latissimus dorsi, and trapezius. These elements all assist you when carrying out movements such as moving your arms and shoulders, breathing, and bending. When one or more of these aspects are affected by injury, health conditions, or lifestyle factors, a variety of symptoms may occur.
Upper Back Pain Symptoms
The symptoms experienced with upper back issues depend on the cause and underlying factors. These may include:
- Aching, burning, stabbing, or sharp pain.
- Sudden, transient, persistent, or chronic discomfort.
- Stiffness
- Weakness
- Reduced mobility, range of motion, or balance.
- Referred or radiating pain, such as headaches or numbness in the fingers.
- Breathing difficulties.
TYPES OF UPPER BACK PAIN
Upper back pain may be caused by a range of issues and presents in various ways. Some types of upper back pain that we often see in our clinic include the following:
FACET JOINT SPRAIN
WHAT IS THE CONDITION?
Facet joints are small joints on the back part of your vertebrae that aid in providing different spinal movements. These joints have a capsule of ligaments surrounding them, which can become inflamed, irritated, or torn if they are overloaded, stretched or compressed. Facet joint sprains can affect people of all ages.
WHAT CAUSES THIS CONDITION?
Facet joint sprains can be caused by;
- Sudden movements (twisting the torso)
- Sleeping or laying in an awkward position for a prolonged period of time
- Lifting or carrying heavy items.
- Whiplash
- Repetitive coughing and sneezing
WHO DOES IT AFFECT?
SYMPTOMS
- Sudden onset of pain during a causative activity
- Limited range of movement, which may result in pain when the joint is moved in a particular direction, such as twisting or leaning backwards.
- Pain that is worse in the morning or after prolonged activity.
- Tenderness of the muscles and joints in the area.
- Referred pain to the shoulder blade, ribs, or chest.
RIB SPRAIN
WHAT IS THE CONDITION?
WHAT CAUSES THIS CONDITION?
Rib joints near the vertebrae can be sprained, affecting the connective tissues that surround them.
Rib sprains may be caused by factors such as:
- Overuse
- Sudden movements
- Incorrect lifting technique
- Trauma
SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE:
- Pain near the spine that may refer around to the chest.
- Sudden onset of pain.
- Pain aggravated by twisting or bending.
- Pain or discomfort with breathing, coughing and sneezing.
COSTOCHONDRITIS
WHAT IS THE CONDITION?
Costochondritis is one of the most common causes of musculoskeletal upper back pain. It can occur when there is inflammation of the cartilage at the attachment sites of the ribs and the sternum (breastbone). Females are more commonly affected- accounting for 70% of diagnosed conditions.
WHAT CAUSES THIS CONDITION?
Costochondritis may be caused by factors such as:
- Repeated micro-trauma and overuse.
- Trauma
- Straining from intense coughing, and various infections.
- Certain forms of arthritis.
SYMPTOMS may include:
- Localised pain at the front of the chest.
- Back pain that radiates into the abdomen, shoulder, or arms.
- Pain can be aggravated with coughing, sneezing, upper body movement, and deep breathing.
- Pain that worsens with exercise or strenuous activity.
- Tenderness of the cartilage that joins the ribs to the chest.
SCOLIOSIS
WHAT IS THE CONDITION?
A spine has a natural curve when looking at it from the side. It can be described as an “S” and this shape is essential for the way we work. Scoliosis is a condition in which an abnormal curve can be seen when viewed from the front or back. This type of curve can occur in any part of the spine. Scoliosis typically begins between the ages of 9-15.
SYMPTOMS CAN INCLUDE:
- Uneven shoulders, waist, and/or hips
- Visible rib prominence.
- Back pain.
- Difficulty breathing.
POSTURE AND INJURIES
Postural compensation, poor posture, and injuries may contribute to upper back pain by placing strain on muscles, ligaments, and discs, leading to muscle imbalances, tension, and structural abnormalities.
ISSUES MAY BE DUE TO:
- Prolonged computer use and ‘text neck’.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
- Sports accidents.
- Lifting heavy loads.
CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITIONS
Several health issues can lead to upper back pain and related symptoms. This can include conditions such as:
- Asthma
- Obesity
- Osteoarthritis.
- Osteoporosis.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Gallbladder problems.
- Lung cancer.
UPPER BACK PAIN TREATMENTS
The team at Excel Body & Health are highly skilled and dedicated practitioners who will assist in determining the cause and underlying factors of your upper back pain. Your treatment plan will be tailored to you and will focus on reducing pain, restoring normal function, and preventing further issues.
Treatment and management may include a range of techniques and methods such as:
- Soft tissue massage.
- Muscle energy techniques.
- Stretching
- Joint mobilisation and manipulation.
- Electrotherapy.
- Dry needling.
- Taping.
- Hot or cold therapy.
- Exercise prescription.
- Activity modification.
- Development of a rehabilitation program.
YOUR UPPER BACK PAIN QUESTIONS ANSWERED
There are many reasons why you may experience upper back pain at some point in your life. The chance of doing so may increase due to factors such as an inactive lifestyle, genetics, increased weight, age, and stress.
Our therapists will provide a thorough assessment, looking at factors such as symptoms, duration and intensity of the issue, medical history, and lifestyle. This may include steps such as a physical assessment, discussion, collaboration with your healthcare team, analysing scans, or advice to see a doctor for specific tests such as an MRI, bone density scan, or X-Ray.
WHY EXCEL BODY & HEALTH CLINIC?
Our multi-disciplinary team at Excel Body & Health Clinic is passionate about delivering high-quality, holistic care. We are proud to provide a wide range of care options, including osteopathy, physiotherapy, podiatry, and clinical exercise & Pilates classes.
Our experienced and highly qualified therapists treat patients from Rosanna, Heidelberg, Viewbank, Macleod, Watsonia, Ivanhoe, Eaglemont, Bulleen, Reservoir, Preston, and many other areas around Victoria.
GAIN UPPER BACK PAIN RELIEF AT EXCEL BODY & HEALTH CLINIC
Upper back pain may stem from various causes and manifest in different ways. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to the pain can be crucial in determining the appropriate treatment and alleviating discomfort.
Addressing upper back pain requires a comprehensive approach that considers the specific cause and individual needs. Treatments may range from conservative measures to more complex interventions. Our team aims to provide valuable guidance and personalised treatment plans that incorporate your requirements and goals to get you back on track.
Visiting us promptly when pain begins is important, as it may help to prevent it from interfering with your daily life and leading to other complications. When you are experiencing upper back pain, organise an initial consultation with one of our team for professional support and treatment.
