WHAT IS UPPER BACK PAIN?
Less common than lower back pain, upper back pain refers to the condition in which the upper region of the back, also known as thoracic region, suffers from injury, sprain, strain, or muscle tension. Upper back pain is usually felt from the region below the neck (cervical spine) down to the region just above the lower back (lumbar spine). This area is the most stable region in the spine, and thus does not get affected as much as the lower back.
SYMPTOMS:
Upper back pain normally occurs when the soft tissues in the spine gets injured, sprained, or strained. While it may feel like you’re only having a mild discomfort, you will recognize that you are already having an upper back pain when you experience the following symptoms:
- Pain
- Tightness
- Stiffness
- Muscle spasm
- Tenderness to touch
- Headache
CAUSES:
Generally, poor posture is one of the main causes of upper back pain. However, there are other movements and activities that can trigger an episode of upper back pain, and these include:
- Carrying heavy loads
- Excessive bending
- Twisting
- Whiplash or other neck injury
- Improper lifting
- Poor muscle tone
- Repetitive movements
- Overuse of muscles
- Contact sports
- Looking downwards for long periods of time (i.e. using your cell phone all the time)
- Being overweight
HOW TO DEAL WITH UPPER BACK PAIN:
Upper back pain can become painful and inconvenient if not treated immediately. These products can help alleviate the pain you’re experiencing.
Armstrong Amerika Thoracic Back Brace Support
StabilityAce Upper Back Posture Corrector Brace and Clavicle Support
Magic Back Support Lumbar StretcherÂ
RELATED CONDITIONS:
To learn more about similar conditions, click on the links below.