Upper Back Pain
It is true to say that this type of pain is much less common than low back pain. However those who suffer from upper back pain know all too well that the upper part of the back can hurt just as much as the lower back. This type of pain relates to the area between the lower back and the neck.
The upper back is also called the “thoracic” area and is part of the back where the ribs attach. There are always many possible causes of thoracic pain, for instance it could be as a result of poor posture, overuse, or an injury. The upper back is often injured while carrying objects, bending, throwing, twisting or even vigorous coughing and sneezing. However, due to the increase in desk-bound jobs, the most common cause now is prolonged sitting at a computer. Due to this reduced movement, the blood flow to the muscles becomes reduced, which starves them of nutrients. As a result they begin to tighten and feel “rope like”.
Due to the structure of the thoracic area being shaped for support and protection, most serious joint conditions affecting the neck or lower back (spinal stenosis, disc injuries, and degeneration) are far less common in this area. In fact, the thoracic area often has to compensate for problems located in the lower back, neck and shoulders.
Having said this, there are also more sinister causes of upper back pain which should not be over-looked, particularly if the pain is persistant, unexplained and is not affected by body position. Such conditions as heart disease, rib fracture and referred pain from the digestive organs should all be considered.
Osteopaths are trained in screening for these serious problems and will refer you to a doctor for further tests, if required.
An osteopath will examine, diagnose and treat using an array of different manual techniques, based on the patient in front of them. They will also give you advice and some exercises to reduced the risk of the pain returning. If your job does entail a prolonged sitting posture, then the osteopath will help you address this situation, which may or may not include suggesting an ergonomic assessment of your work station.
To locate an osteopath in your area click the link below:
Upper Back Pain
The upper back is also called the “thoracic” area and is part of the back where the ribs attach. There are always many possible causes of thoracic pain, for instance it could be as a result of poor posture, overuse, or an injury. The upper back is often injured while carrying objects, bending, throwing, twisting or even vigorous coughing and sneezing. However, due to the increase in desk-bound jobs, the most common cause now is prolonged sitting at a computer. Due to this reduced movement, the blood flow to the muscles becomes reduced, which starves them of nutrients. As a result they begin to tighten and feel “rope like”.
Due to the structure of the thoracic area being shaped for support and protection, most serious joint conditions affecting the neck or lower back (spinal stenosis, disc injuries, and degeneration) are far less common in this area. In fact, the thoracic area often has to compensate for problems located in the lower back, neck and shoulders.
Having said this, there are also more sinister causes of upper back pain which should not be over-looked, particularly if the pain is persistant, unexplained and is not affected by body position. Such conditions as heart disease, rib fracture and referred pain from the digestive organs should all be considered.
Osteopaths are trained in screening for these serious problems and will refer you to a doctor for further tests, if required.
An osteopath will examine, diagnose and treat using an array of different manual techniques, based on the patient in front of them. They will also give you advice and some exercises to reduced the risk of the pain returning. If your job does entail a prolonged sitting posture, then the osteopath will help you address this situation, which may or may not include suggesting an ergonomic assessment of your work station.
To locate an osteopath in your area click the link below:
Upper Back Pain
