Are you one of the many people who suffer from upper to middle back pain??
The thoracic spine—also referred to as the upper back or middle back— consists of 12 vertebrae that connect to the ribs and is designed for stability to anchor the rib cage and protect vital internal organs within the chest.
Thoracic back pain refers to discomfort or pain felt in the area of the upper and middle back, also known as the thoracic spine.
Thoracic back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, muscle strain or tears, joint sprains, pinched nerves, osteoarthritis, kyphosis, degenerative joint disease or a fracture. It can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as fibromyalgia, scoliosis, or ankylosing spondylitis.
Symptoms of thoracic back pain can range from mild to severe and can include aching, stiffness, sharp or burning pain, and muscle spasms. Pain may be felt in the middle or upper back, as well as in the chest, neck, shoulders, or arms.
Treatment for thoracic back pain will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the pain. In many cases, rest, ice or heat may be sufficient to relieve symptoms but the current evidence states that manual therapy, needling and clinical exercise may relieve upper back pain in adults. Manipulation techniques and soft tissue approaches have helped some patients (Southerst et al, 2015).
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining good posture, exercising regularly and avoiding heavy lifting or repetitive motions can also help prevent and manage thoracic back pain.
It's important to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing persistent or severe thoracic back pain as it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with thoracic back pain can find relief and improve their quality of life.
At Whole Health Osteopathy we regularly treat and manage thoracic back pain, so if this is something that bothers you do not hesitate to book in and get it dealt with!!
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