Upper Back Pain
Upper back pain is any pain or discomfort throughout the back of the chest and upper abdominal area. The upper back area includes the shoulder blades and rib cage connects to the thoracic (chest region) spine. The top is also known as the mid-back or thoracic spine.
Most people experience back pain at some point in their lives. However, upper back pain is not as common as lower back pain, which is the most common cause of job-related disability and absenteeism, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Upper back pain is not as common, because the thoracic spine does not move as much as the spine in the lower back and neck.
Upper back pain may last briefly or it can be chronic, defined as lasting more than three months. The pain may be dull and throbbing or sharp and stabbing. You can be in constant pain, or perhaps pain occurs only during a particular activity, such as lifting grocery bags or after working at your desk for an extended period of time.
Common Questions about Painkillers
In addition to the spine and shoulders, many nerves, muscles, tendons and ligaments of the upper back. Any of these structures can become irritated and inflamed in response to a variety of different factors and conditions, such as poor posture, overuse, and trauma, arthritis and bone cancer. However, upper back pain is most often due to irritation of the muscles or joint problems and is generally not a concern.
Upper back pain with other symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath may be a sign of a heart attack and should be evaluated immediately in emergency situations. Also, if the pain is extreme and persistent or causes you concern, please contact a medical professional.
