Upper back pain most often occurs along with neck and shoulder pain.
Trauma, injury, strain and poor posture are just some of the most common causes.
A good example of back pain caused by poor posture is the pain commonly experienced by those who spend most of the day in front of a computer.
Although the specific causes vary, this cases can be attributed to two general causes, namely: muscular irritation and joint dysfunction.
Large muscles attach our shoulder girdles to our shoulder blades and the back of our rib cage.
These muscles are prone to irritation that can cause upper pain.
The most favourable treatment options for this type of back pain are exercise, physical therapy, chiropractic manipulation, massage therapy and acupuncture.
You can expect most of the required rehabilitation programs to include a lot of stretching exercises.
Joint dysfunction is also one of the most common causes.
Two joints connect our ribs with the vertebrae in our thoracic spine.
Any dysfunction in these joints can cause upper back pain.
Treatment for this problem usually involves manual manipulation by a chiropractor, an osteopathic physician, or a physical therapist.
The treatment program is meant to help reduce the pain and mobilize the affected joint.
For more lasting relief, you may also need a home exercise program to stretch and strengthen your spine.
It is important to consult your doctor for treatment.
Just as upper pain causes vary, the advisable treatment program will also vary depending on the specifics of your case.