Back problems are one of the leading occupational hazards in the United States. Upper back pain is less common than lower back pain. The upper back is generally considered to be the thoracic cage. The thoracic cage consists of 12 spinal bones in their ribs. The spinal bones are connected with soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons and muscles. This skeletal structure is designed to protect the vital organs of the body.
This upper area generally experiences little movement. It is meant to be flexible and to provide a protective area for the major organs like the heart and the liver. Other areas such as the neck and lower back have greater range of motion than the upper spine area.
The upper spine has less movement than other areas of the spine. This generally helps to protect it from injuries since it has a lesser range of motion than other parts. However, there are many potential issues which can cause discomfort to this important region.
There are two major functions for the upper spine. One major function is to provide a protected area for the vital organs. The thoracic cage provides a protective area for the heart and liver. The other major function is the distribution of body weight. The upper spine must be able to transmit fluctuations in how weight is distributed and to be able to transmit those between the upper and lower body.
There are two main groups of causes for upper spine pain. One category of problem has to do with injury to the soft tissue between the spinal discs. The other major category has to do with certain conditions which can degrade the loan or tissue in the upper spine.
One type of soft tissue injury involves either a string or a sprain. When this occurs, the muscles in the back are stretched excessively. Excessive stretching can cause tears that develop in the muscle tissue. In the case of a sprain, the injury occurs to you the ligaments between the bones. These are the two most common occurrences of upper spine problems.
The other common cause of discomfort and the upper spine has to do with the soft tissues. The soft tissues hold the vertebrae together and maintain the flexibility of the spinal column. Pain can result from over exerting this area or from injury.
One common cause that many people do not realize is the strain put on the back from sitting. Many people work long hours in a seated position at a desk. The muscles of the back can become fatigued because of the attention being put on them.
There are a number of more serious conditions which can result in more chronic upper spine pain. One common cause of back pain is a ruptured or herniated disc. The discs act as shock absorbers during movement to provide a cushion. Over time they may wear and lose their flexibility. Other conditions are arthritis, fibromyalgia, and osteoporosis.
Some of the typical treatments for upper spine pain are exercises, physical therapy, chiropractic treatment and massage therapy. Exercises include a lot of stretching to improve flexibility. Physical therapy uses stretching exercises and massage to naturally help the body. Chiropractic manipulation may be used to help straighten and better aligns the spine. Massage therapy may be given by therapist or a massage chair.
Always check with your physician and get a diagnosis as to your situation. There are quite a number of factors which can contribute to upper spine pain. Your physician can run a number of tests to determine what issues may need to be resolved. They can also discuss with you treatment options available.
The good thing is that there are more treatment options available today than ever before. Doctors also reserve surgery as a last resort. There are many natural methods to help restore the health of your spine. Discuss with your health professional natural options which can help to reduce and relieve your upper back pain.
