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Ouch! My Aching Back – Part 3

Ouch! My Aching Back – Part 3

By Virginia Nsitem
Pride Health Columnist

There is a lot of discussion of low back pain, but mid back pain can be just as painful and disabling. This article will discuss some of the causes of mid back pain.

Anatomy of the thoracic spine

The thoracic spine, also referred to as the upper back and mid back, sits between the neck and low back. It is made up of 12 spinal bones called vertebrae. The bones are separated by spinal discs. There are 12 pairs of ribs that connect to each spinal bone, one on each side. The ribs curve around to the front of the body and attach to the chest bone called the sternum. The bottom 2 pairs of ribs do not attach to the chest wall. There are muscles and ligaments that attach to the spinal bones, discs, and ribs.

The thoracic spine provides stability for holding our posture straight. The rib cage also helps to protect vital organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys.

Mid back pain

Upper and mid back pain can be caused from poor posture, muscle strains, joint sprains, and arthritis.

Scoliosis is a term used to describe an abnormal curvature in the spine. It occurs in young children, and is often noticeable when they are going through a growth spurt. Mild cases of scoliosis are monitored by a physician or specialist and often no treatment is required. Moderate cases of scoliosis require a brace to help slow down the progression of the curve. Severe cases of scoliosis are treated surgically to correct the curve. Scoliosis can often lead to upper and mid back pain.

Poor posture, such as a rounding of the shoulders and a hunchback appearance of the thoracic spine can cause upper and mid back pain. This condition is called kyphosis, and if severe, can also affect the lungs. It is common in older women and is associated with osteoporosis and arthritis. There are conditions that can lead to kyphosis in younger adults and children.

There are many causes of upper and mid back pain unrelated to the muscles and joints, such as diseases affecting the heart, lungs, and other organs.

What can be done?

The first step is to get a proper diagnosis by your chiropractor or physician. Treatment for muscle and joint injuries may include using modalities such as Laser to reduce pain and inflammation, soft tissue techniques, chiropractic treatments, and stretching and strengthening exercises. You may be provided with specific exercises to improve your posture.

Dr. Virginia Nsitem is a chiropractor specializing in laser therapy for muscle, joint and nerve injuries, and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences in Canada. She may be reached at (905) 275-4993, or by email at totalhealth@bellnet.ca.

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