Although pain in the upper part of the back does not occur as commonly as it does in the mid or lower region, it can still bring a lot of discomfort when it does. In most cases it is the result of either joint dysfunction or muscular irritation in the area. By visiting a Raleigh chiropractor, those who are suffering from it can get relief through natural therapy.
Since the upper back, also called the thoracic spine, is fairly stable and moves less than other parts of the back, it isn’t likely to develop disorders with spinal discs. In most cases it becomes painful due to excessive strain or an injury. It is common for people who work all day in front of computers to be afflicted by it, because of their posture. Shoulder and neck pain are often seen along with it too.
The large muscles adjacent to this part of the spine can become irritated and tense due to underuse, overuse, or an injury related to playing sports or an accident. The chiropractor will examine the area, and he or she will prescribe a suitable course of therapy to help alleviate it. Methods most commonly employed include chiropractic adjustments, massage, and stretching exercises.
Sometimes pain in these muscles is caused by a “trigger point”. This is a sensitive spot along a skeletal muscle that the pain stems from. In such a case, trigger point therapy may be implemented to help relieve the tension in such a spot. It is usually done in combination with stretching exercises and or massage therapy.
Another cause of pain is when there is a dysfunction in the joints which connect the ribs to the spine. If the practitioner determines that this is the problem, he or she will likely apply some adjustments, and will recommend a stretching exercise routine the patient can carry out at home. The goal is to increase mobility in the joint and alleviate the pain.
It is not likely, but occasionally upper back pain can be caused by a herniated disc or a fracture of a thoracic vertebra. These conditions are more serious and usually require that a medical doctor is consulted and diagnostic tests performed. Most cases of pain in the thoracic spine area however, can be easily and effectively improved by a skilled Raleigh chiropractor.
Chiropractic care alleviates back, elbow and wrist joint pain safely. Find more information about a well-respected Raleigh chiropractor at today.
