Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain refers to discomfort in the area above the lower back but below the neck, specifically in the thoracic spine. This part of the spine, consisting of 12 vertebrae (T1-T12), supports the upper body and facilitates movement of the arms, shoulders, and head.

Causes of Upper Back Pain

• Muscle Strain: Overuse, poor posture, or repetitive activities leading to tension in the muscles.
• Thoracic Disc Degeneration: Age-related wear and tear of the intervertebral discs.
• Thoracic Spondylosis (Arthritis): Degenerative changes in the joints between the vertebrae.
• Postural Imbalance: Prolonged poor posture, such as slouching while sitting or standing.
• Muscle Imbalance: Weak or tight muscles leading to improper spinal alignment.
• Osteoporosis: Weakened bones, increasing the risk of fractures in the upper back.
• Trauma: Falls, accidents, or direct impact injuries causing fractures or soft tissue damage.
• Nerve Compression: Pinched nerves in the thoracic spine leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.
• Infections or Tumors: Rare causes of upper back pain that may require urgent attention.

Symptoms of Concern

• Persistent or worsening upper back pain.
• Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms, or chest.
• Numbness or tingling in the upper back, arms, or hands.
• Difficulty breathing due to pain in the thoracic area.
• Stiffness in the upper back.
• Loss of strength or motor control in the arms or shoulders.
• Bowel or bladder dysfunction (a rare but serious symptom).