The thoracic spine located in the mid to upper back plays a very different role than that of the lumbar in the lower back or cervical spine in the neck. Instead of providing the body with mobility, the thoracic spine stabilizes the body to allow it to stand upright. It also works to protect organs located in the chest. Since the thoracic spine has limited movement, there is often not much fear of injury or degeneration, but it is not out of the realm of possibility.

CAUSES

There are three main causes for thoracic back pain. The first is a more recent development. These days, more and more people spend their days leaning over computers. Because the neck and shoulders are not in an appropriate position, it puts strain on the thoracic spine. The second cause is muscular irritation, also called myofascial pain. This is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the body’s tissues. Often times, myofascial pain is actually referred pain. In this case, referred pain means that the source of the pain comes from the shoulders or neck but is felt in the thoracic spine. The final common cause of thoracic pain is joint dysfunction. The ribs are connected to the vertebrae in the thoracic spine, and when the cartilage between them begins to grind away, thoracic pain is the result.

TREATMENTS

Each of these three common causes for thoracic back pain can be treated so the patient can resume daily activities. In the case of strain due to improper posture, the solution is simple. Sit with proper posture. As clear as this treatment is, it is often difficult due to the vast amounts of time people are concentrating at their desks. However, with a little bit of attention to position, the thoracic pain can disappear within days. For those with muscular irritation, manual treatments prove to be the most effective. Arthritis is nearly impossible to reverse, but it can be managed. Acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic manipulation can provide relieving results when performed regularly. Some doctors may suggest an anti-inflammatory medication to keep the condition from flaring up on a day to day basis. The treatment routine for joint dysfunction is very similar to that of muscular irritation, with the exception of a single addition. The patient should seek help from a trained therapist, but should also engage in a daily, at home exercise routine with a focus on strengthening and stretching the shoulder area.

PREVENTION

Preventing thoracic back pain is not a difficult task, but it may take some retraining of daily routines. The most important idea to focus on throughout the day is posture. Not slouching over a computer or desk will prevent a buildup of stress in the upper back. When lifting heavy objects, lifting with the knees as opposed to the back will help prevent injury. Exercising regularly will keep the body stretched and less susceptible to degeneration conditions. Of course, wherever the word “exercise” is present, “diet” is not far behind. A diet rich in calcium will keep the spine strong, and making sure the body is not deprived of any nutrients will ensure the surrounding muscles are reaching their maximum potential. Also, as in many conditions, mental stress is a component of physical pain. Taking time each day to simply relax will allow built up stress in the thoracic spine to melt away.