Some research indicates that adolescents—particularly older adolescents—are at higher risk for upper back pain compared to other age groups. Other risk factors for developing upper back pain include having weakened core and back muscles, female gender, other musculoskeletal pain, and poorer mental health. Cervical Spondylosis with Myelopathy. You are here Conditions Upper Back Pain. Causes of Upper Back Pain share pin it Newsletters. Talbot Sellers, DO. Unlike the cervical spine and lumbar spine, the thoracic spine is relatively immobile because each of its vertebrae are connected to a pair of ribs one on each side , which along with the sternum at the front of the chest combine to form the rib cage.
See Thoracic Vertebrae and the Rib Cage. If upper back pain becomes bad enough to limit activities, it usually feels like a sharp, burning pain localized to one spot or a general achiness that can flare up and possibly spread to the shoulder, neck, or elsewhere. Few studies have been done to track the frequency of upper back pain.
Upper back pain can appear suddenly, such as from an injury or for no apparent reason. It can also start gradually, such as from sitting with poor posture at work. In some cases, upper back pain can be managed with self-care, including rest, adjusting posture, or applying heat or ice. If the pain persists, other treatments may be needed, such as medication, physical therapy, or manual manipulation.
Only in rare cases will an MRI or CT scan find an anatomic problem in the thoracic spine that is amenable to any sort of surgical solution for upper back pain. A physical therapist may recommend exercises to promote flexibility and strength in the area. A traumatic injury can also lead to back pain. This may be the result of situations that include:.
The injury is sometimes obvious, and pain appears just after the incident. At other times, the pain may not develop until later or the next day. Traumatic injuries can be severe, and issues from injuries, for example, fractured vertebrae, put a person at risk of lasting complications, including chronic pain, nerve damage, and paralysis.
A doctor should look at all potential back injuries as it is vital that they heal properly to avoid long-term pain. A doctor may refer the person to a physiologist or physical therapist to help muscle injuries heal properly. Severe injuries may require surgery.
Herniated discs are more common in the lower back but may sometimes happen in the upper back too. Discs are the soft, rubbery cushions between each vertebra. Herniated discs occur when a piece of this cushion pokes through and puts pressure on the spine. Even a small amount of pressure can result in significant pain in the middle of the back, as well as other symptoms, including numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.
Most people do not need surgery for herniated discs and will recover with rest or by taking anti-inflammatory medications. A herniated disc can slip far enough out that it compresses the nearby nerve.
A pinched nerve in the middle back may cause:. When a pinched nerve comes from a herniated disc, the treatment is similar to treating the herniated disc. A pinched nerve does not usually need surgery, though doctors may recommend spinal steroid injections in some cases. The cartilage that cushions and protects the bones may wear down as a person ages. The term for this is osteoarthritis.
It is the most common form of arthritis among older adults, according to the United States National Institute on Aging. Osteoarthritis may eventually lead to cartilage between the bones completely wearing away, causing the bones to rub together. This can also put pressure on the nerves in the spine, causing numbness or tingling in the arms and legs. Anyone who suspects they have osteoarthritis should see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatment typically focuses on managing pain and keeping the joints functioning.
Along with sub-par posture, strain in the muscles around the neck and shoulders or between the shoulder blades can be multi-factorial, says Kaliq Chang, MD, an interventional pain management specialist at the Atlantic Spine Center in West Orange, New Jersey. Most notably: stress, strenuous exercise, and sleeping with your neck in a weird position.
Often you can stay home: There are many effective home remedies for upper back pain relief. Staying comfortable during this time is key. He suggests resting, icing, and taking anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or naproxen. Another sign: if the pain limits your abilities in your day-to-day life, like you have to call off work to stay in bed.
Following are signs you need to get medical help, pronto. If your upper back is persistently hurting, it may—very rarely—be a sign of a lung tumor. Check out these symptoms of lung cancer that are easy to ignore. The American Cancer Society points out that advanced lung cancer may contribute to bone pain.
Weight loss, chest pain, and weakness are also signs of lung cancer. See your doctor if you suspect whiplash, especially if you have other symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and pain in your neck. You may also feel severe pain in your side and back below your ribs, the Mayo Clinic notes. Discomfort while peeing or red- or brown-hued urine may be other clues. The best advice?
In certain instances, severe back pain with an accompanying fever or numbness or tingling in your arms can be from a spinal infection, points out Dr.
If your doc thinks you may have a spinal infection, they may order an X-rays, CT, or MRI scan to help make the diagnosis.
0コメント