Causes of Upper Back Pain

People suffering from upper back pain need look no further than the Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence. Although neck and lower back pain are more common, pain in the thoracic portion of the spine is an issue which deserves attention and we want our patients to understand what factors into it.

There are some causes of pain in the upper back which are rare but should be tested for. These include infections or bony growths in the vertebrae putting pressure on the spinal cord. The thoracic vertebrae, which the ribs are attached to, do not have as much freedom of movement as other articulated vertebrae, but it is still possible for their discs to wear down or a fracture to develop in people with osteoporosis. However, most upper back pain is caused by muscle fatigue.

If people maintain bad posture, their back muscles will be strained and may tear. Slouching while seated, carrying heavy objects off-center or too high over the head, or even lack of a properly fitted bra may put excessive weight on the upper back muscles. For short-term relief, we provide spinal adjustment to ensure the muscles aren’t being further strained by misaligned parts of the spinal column. In the long-term, strengthening the torso muscles will allow them to take on more weight from the back muscles. Office workers should also remember to sit straight up with their feet on the floor and to keep their screens at eye-level.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.