Called the “dorsal” or “thoracic” spine, the mid back area consists of twelve vertebrae and their associated ribs.
Mid back pain can be a serious symptom.
The mid back area often ends up in trouble due to compensating for the pelvis and lower back region or the upper neck and cervical spine area with tasks such as sitting at the computer or driving for long periods of time. Mid back pain can also be associated with referred pain from one of the organ systems in the body such as the lungs, pancreas, gallbladder or kidneys.
Mid back problems can feel like respiratory or cardiac problems and require immediate attention. It is not uncommon for a patient who has gone to the hospital in distress because breathing is very painful to find out that their problem was not a heart attack but a musculoskeletal issue involving rib pain.
Symptoms of mid back pain can range from muscle tightness and spasms, trigger points (areas of acute spasm and pain), restricted range of motion when bending or twisting, and sharp or stabbing pains from the back, radiating to the front. The rib cage can also be involved creating symptoms that mimic respiratory or cardiac problems such as shortness of breath, and painful or effortful breathing.
You should be evaluated by a Doctor of Chiropractic whenever mild to moderate mid back pain or symptoms occur (BEFORE you ever experience the fear of going to a hospital for a suspected heart attack.) Our Doctors of Chiropractic specialize in the musculoskeletal system and its biomechanically related functions. A complete history and examination will help determine the origin of the problem and how best to proceed. A corrective care plan will then be designed to alleviate your symptoms and correct underlying problems.
Our Doctors of Chiropract use their hands or a small instrument to perform spinal adjustments that help restore the function of the bones of the mid back and the rest of the skeletal system enabling related soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments to re-pattern with biomechanics required for better health.
If you experience pain or tightness in your mid back, see a one of our Doctors of Chiropractic immediately to determine its cause and to design a care plan specific to your needs.
