Upper back pain is a common ailment among people of all ages. It can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. If you’re experiencing upper back pain you may be wondering if it’s a cause for concern. In this blog post we’ll discuss the symptoms and causes of upper back pain and when it’s time to seek professional help.
Symptoms of Upper Back Pain: Upper back pain symptoms can manifest in various ways such as burning, aching, stabbing or shooting pain. It may extend to your neck, arms or shoulders and may be accompanied by muscle stiffness. If your upper back pain is causing difficulty breathing, nausea or chest pain it may be a sign of a more severe medical condition and you should call emergency services immediately.
Causes of Upper Back Pain: Upper back pain can occur due to numerous factors such as muscle strain and injury, poor posture, herniated discs, arthritis or structural issues. Muscle strain and injury can happen due to excessive lifting, carrying or performing repetitive motions, leading to inflammation. Poor posture can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments of the upper back, leading to pain. Herniated discs, arthritis, or structural issues in the spine can result in pinched nerves, leading to chronic upper back pain.
When to See a Chiropractor: A chiropractor can help provide relief for upper back pain caused by muscle strain or injury, poor posture, or spine misalignment. They employ techniques such as spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and stretching exercises to alleviate pain and improve mobility. If your pain persists for more than a few days and is not improving, it’s best to consult with a chiropractor to identify the root cause of the issue.
When to See a Physiotherapist: If your upper back pain is chronic and severe, you may want to consider seeing a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy can be effective in treating upper back pain caused by herniated discs, arthritis, or other structural issues in the spine. They can provide exercises to improve posture and strengthen the muscles, relieve pain through manual therapy techniques, or perform ultrasound and electrical stimulation to alleviate inflammation.
Prevention Tips for Upper Back Pain: To prevent upper back pain, it’s crucial to follow proper posture habits, take frequent breaks when sitting for extended periods, and exercise regularly to strengthen your muscles. If you’re lifting a heavy object, always remember to lift with your legs and not your back. Avoid carrying bags or backpacks that are too heavy and opt for ergonomic chairs and pillows to avoid muscle strain.
Upper back pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and understanding the symptoms and causes can help you decide when it’s time to seek help. A visit to a chiropractor or physiotherapist can alleviate your pain and help you improve your mobility and overall health. Remember to follow preventive measures such as proper posture habits and regular exercise to avoid upper back pain in the future.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
