Thoracic Spine Pain & Potential Issues
The thoracic spine (aka the middle back) protects the organs found in the chest. The upper back is resistant to injuries. If there is pain in the upper back, it can be due to poor posture. Sometimes, thoracic spine pain due to an injury that impacts the sturdiness of the spine, though.
Understanding Thoracic Spine Pain
The spine is broken up into 12 vertebrae, T1 to T12. They start under the neck and go down the spine to the torso. The thoracic spine does not move, unlike the cervical and lumbar spine. This is because the vertebrae are connected to a pair of ribs on each side. Therefore, if the upper back is in pain, it’s usually due to a couple of things, such as:
Muscular irritation. When the upper back becomes tight, it can be painful. Back tightness is often due to a lack of strength or performing repetitive motions.
Joint Dysfunction. This can happen if there is a tear in the cartilage or the capsule lining of the joint. The pain often feels sharp, and it may feel like there is a burning sensation.
Causes & Treatment for Upper Back Pain
Around 9 percent of men and 17 percent of women experience upper back pain. The pain can be from an injury or may appear for no reason. In fact, it can gradually form from poor posture.
Rest is necessary to adjust your posture. Heat or ice is the perfect tool for pain and inflammation relief. However, if the pain persists, it is time to see a doctor.
Thoracic back pain red flags
Since the thoracic spine is by the vital organs, there is a higher chance that surgery will not be necessary. However, in rare cases, surgery will be required. But it’s important to under back pain red flags, such as:
- Recent serious injury, such as a car accident or a fall from a height.
- Minor injury or even just heavy lifting in people with ‘thinning’ of the bones (osteoporosis).
- Age under 20 or over 50 years when the pain first starts.
- A history of cancer, drug misuse, HIV infection, a condition that suppresses your immune system (immunosuppression), and use of steroids for a long time (about six months or more).
- Feeling generally poorly – for example, a high temperature (fever), chills, and unexplained weight loss.
- A recent infection by a germ (bacterial infection).
- Pain that is there all the time, severe and worsening.
- Pain that wasn’t caused by a sprain or strain (non-mechanical).
- The pain doesn’t get better after 2-4 weeks of treatment.
- Pain that is accompanied by severe stiffness in the morning.
- Changes to the shape of the spine, including the appearance of lumps or bumps.
- Pins and needles, numbness or weakness of the legs that is severe or gets worse over time.
- Passing wee or poo accidentally (can indicate pressure on the spinal cord).
Why Thoracic Spine Pain Can Be a Problem
Upper back pain is known to be linked to an infection or illness. Therefore, you should seek immediate treatment in case you are not aware of the underlying cause.
Symptoms of an infection may include pins and needles, chills, a fever, problem walking, or a headache.
If you are experiencing back pain without relief, call us immediately at 888-409-8006. Our offices are conveniently located throughout South Florida.