Upper back pain is one of the most common health problems. It is estimated that over 80% of people will experience upper back pain in their lifetime. Most of the time, back pain is not caused by any serious conditions. 90% of acute back pain problems are usually resolved within six weeks time.
Back pain is actually the third most common reason why people visit their doctor. As for upper back pain or mid back pain there can be several causes. ( Thoracic section in your spine T1 – T12 )
Check out our infographic below to learn more about the most common causes of upper back pain.
1. Bad Posture
Having bad posture can cause mid back pain in the long run. It is because many people spend their day at work sitting in a chair looking at a computer screen. The spine has natural curves, consider getting an office chair with good lumbar support and cervical support.
If you do not want to change your office chair, there are some lumbar support cushions you can buy. The most common “bad posture” is sitting with a rounded back and with your shoulders hunched forward on the computer screen. Being mindful everyday of how you sit in your chair can help break the habit of bad posture.
2. Lifting Incorrectly
Everyone has said “lift with your legs, not your back” this is 100% true. Good body mechanics is important. When lifting heavy objects with your legs, you are most likely to prevent straining your back or pulling a muscle.
3. Carrying Heavy Bags or Backpacks
For women, a heavy handbag can overload the sprain to one side of the body. Most women also do not switch sides when carrying a heavy handbag. The same goes for men carrying laptop bags or briefcases and everyone who carries heavy backpacks. The strain overtime can cause degenerative problems for your upper or mid back.
4. Traumatic Injuries
Sudden impacts to the spine or quick movements like in a car accident can cause upper back pain. Sometimes the pain may not be felt until 24 hours later due to the adrenaline rush your body produces after a traumatic injury.
These types of injuries can cause nerve damage, herniated discs, and fractured vertebrates. If you were involved in a traumatic injury such as a car accident or a slip and fall, seeing a spine surgeon even if you do not think you are injured should be at utmost important.
5. Infections
Spinal infections are rare, but when they happen fungi, bacteria, or viruses invade the spinal tissues causing inflammation or abscess. This inflammation or abscess can impinge the spinal cord which then sends pain signals to the brain.
Infections can also break down and decay the bones in the spine as well. Therefore, if you believe you have a spinal infection it needs to be taken care of immediately.
6. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes your bones to become less dense and break. Caucasian and Asian women who are past menopause are at highest risk for osteoporosis. A healthy diet and exercising can help prevent further bone loss and also strengthen bones.
7. Scoliosis
Curves in the spine are generally normal. When the curves of the spine are going in the wrong direction in the thoracic region of the spine, we call it scoliosis. This condition means the spine is curved to the right or left of the body ( C shaped or S shaped curve in spine ) Scoliosis affects .5% of men and 2% of females.
8. Overusing Muscles
Repetitive activities and overusing your muscles can cause a strain or sprain. Example can be someone who is a painter and uses the same motion over and over again. The pain can be acute and resting will help, but if the symptoms are ignored chronic pain can develop.
9. Herniated Discs
Herniated discs are not as common in the upper or mid back as they are in the cervical spine or lumbar spine. When the vertebral disc extrudes and puts pressure on the spinal cord pain can be felt. This includes numbness and tingling in the arms or legs. Most herniations can recover with conservative methods such as anti-inflammatory medications or therapy.
10. Pinched Nerves
A herniation can also cause pinched nerves in the spinal column. The same symptoms as a herniated disc can occur including problems with controlling urination. Treatment options are the same and conservative methods of treatment can help pinched nerves.
11. Car Accidents
The sad truth is that auto accidents often result in life changing injuries. Many patients that we treat at Florida Surgery Consultants have been involved in a car accident and need medical attention due to the injuries.
The injuries may be masked at first due to the adrenaline rush, that is why it is necessary to come see a Board Certified Spine Surgeon who can diagnose and treat the injuries. The more time wasted after a car accident, the worse the spinal issues can potentially be.
12. Lack of Exercise
Leading a primarily sedentary lifestyle is one of the leading causes of back pain. The reduced activity causes your muscles to become weak leading to more stiffness and pain. By exercising, your back muscles will strengthen making your back more flexible and reducing pain.
13. Needing a New Mattress
Having a mattress that is uncomfortable for your body can lead to ongoing mid back pain. The lack of support is a big problem with some mattresses which will give you poor sleeping habits. The most important thing to do is find a mattress that suits your needs and is most comfortable.
14. Myofascial Pain
The connected tissues in the back can also cause pain. This can happen after an injury or the overuse of the tissues in your back.
Most of the time, therapy exercises that work the fascia can reduce and relieve the pain. If the myofascial pain is chronic, minimally invasive surgical intervention may be needed.
Local Spine Surgeons Who Can Help
If you are suffering from mid back pain, please contact our office. We have 5 clinics with board certified spine surgeons in Florida. Florida Surgery Consultants has locations in Tampa, Lakeland, Ocala, Gainesville and Lakewood Ranch.
Whether you are experiencing mid back pain after a traumatic injury such as a car accident or have been dealing with chronic mid back pain, our team of spine surgeons can help. We currently accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Brighthealth, Auto Insurance, Workers’ Compensation, and Medicare. You can learn more about the forms of insurance we accept here.
Call our main line (888) 411-6824, talk to us with livechat, or use the consultation form to schedule an appointment. We currently also offer telemedicine appointments as well.