Mid Back Pain
Mid-back pain, also known as thoracic spinal pain, can be a debilitating condition that affects the area between the base of your neck and the bottom of your rib cage. This region, which houses twelve thoracic vertebrae, serves as a critical support structure for your upper body.
Despite being less mobile than the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine, the thoracic area is essential for maintaining posture and facilitating movements such as twisting and bending. Mid-back pain can range from a dull, persistent ache to sharp, acute discomfort, sometimes radiating to the chest or sides of the torso. It often impacts daily activities and overall quality of life, making it crucial to promptly identify and address the underlying causes.
Let's dive into the top causes of mid back pain.
Muscle Strain or Sprain
One of the most common causes of mid-back pain is muscle strain or sprain. Poor posture, especially during prolonged periods of sitting or standing, can place excessive pressure on the thoracic spine, leading to discomfort. Lifting heavy objects improperly or sudden, awkward movements can also cause the muscles and ligaments in the mid-back to stretch or tear, resulting in pain and stiffness.
Herniated Discs
Another prevalent cause of mid-back pain is herniated or bulging discs. These conditions occur when a spinal disc's soft, gel-like center pushes through a tear in the tougher exterior, irritating nearby nerves. Disc herniation can lead to both local pain and radiating symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in the arms or legs.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, can affect the thoracic spine, leading to inflammation, pain, and limited mobility. This condition results from the gradual wear and tear of cartilage, which cushions the ends of bones within joints. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones may rub against each other, causing discomfort and stiffness.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, can also contribute to mid-back pain. This condition can result in an uneven distribution of weight and strain on the thoracic vertebrae and surrounding muscles, leading to chronic discomfort.
Other Medical Conditions
Other medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, spinal infections, and certain cancers, can cause mid-back pain. Osteoporosis, a condition where bones become brittle and fragile, can lead to compression fractures in the thoracic spine, resulting in pain. Spinal infections and cancers, although less common, can also cause significant discomfort in this region.
If you are struggling with mid-back pain, there is hope for relief. At MVMT Health in Tampa, our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care to address your specific needs. We offer a range of treatment options, including Shockwave Therapy, to help alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life.
Don’t let mid-back pain control your life any longer. Schedule a visit with our practice today and take the first step towards a pain-free future.
Let's Take the First Step Together
At MVMT Health, we're passionate about helping people overcome chronic pain and enjoy a better quality of life. Don't let low back pain dictate your life any longer. We invite you to schedule a discovery visit with our team. Let's figure out the best way forward together because you deserve a life free from pain.
Contact MVMT Health today, and let's say goodbye to low back pain once and for all!