Understanding Thoracic Mid-back Pain
Thoracic mid back pain is felt in the upper or middle part of the back, around the area of the ribs and shoulder blades. It is often linked to irritation in the muscles, joints or other soft tissues in this part of the spine, and may feel worse with sitting, twisting, lifting or staying in one position for too long.
Symptoms can range from a mild ache or stiffness to sharper pain, tightness or a feeling of restriction through the mid back. For some people, it comes on gradually over time, while for others it may begin after a strain, awkward movement or a change in activity. Long periods at a desk, inactivity, poor posture and sprains or strains can all contribute.
A careful assessment can help identify what may be contributing to your symptoms and guide the right treatment plan to reduce pain, improve movement and help you return to more comfortable day-to-day activity. Although most back pain is not caused by anything serious, NHS guidance advises seeking urgent medical help for back pain that is associated with warning signs such as fever, unexplained weight loss, a history of cancer, pain that is constant or worsening at night or upper back pain without any injury.
