Upper back pain is a common issue that brings discomfort and affects your ability to enjoy the activities. Knowing the common causes can help in diagnosing and treating the underlying problems. This article will explore four common causes of upper back pain, their effects and potential treatments.
1. Poor Posture
Poor posture is a common cause of upper back pain. In today’s society, sitting in front of a computer for hours every day can contribute to poor posture. Sitting with poor posture for long stretches of time can lead to pain and stiffness in the upper back and shoulders. The effects of poor posture range from mild discomfort to chronic issues. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve posture and lessen the pain caused by it.
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It’s important to pay attention to your posture and make sure you’re sitting correctly. Lowering the chair and laptop so that your back is straight and your elbows are at a 90 degree angle can help you maintain proper posture. Taking regular breaks to stand up and walk around can also help in keeping good posture and avoiding unnecessary pain. To prevent further pain or injury, it’s important to make sure you hold good posture when doing activities, such as lifting and carrying heavy objects.
2. Muscle Strain and Injury
Muscle strain and injury can cause upper back pain. Physical activities, such as lifting heavy objects or playing contact sports can put extra strain on the muscles, causing them to become inflamed and painful. This type of muscle strain is particularly common in athletes who take part in contact sports and in people who do manual labor on a daily basis. The pain caused by muscle strain or injury can range from mild to severe and can linger for weeks.
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Treatment for muscle strain or injury typically involves rest and application of cold compresses to reduce inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also help to reduce the pain and inflammation. If the pain persists, physical therapy can help stretch and strengthen the affected muscles in order to promote healing.
3. Fractured Bones
Fractured bones are another common cause of upper back pain. The pain from a fractured bone can be mild or severe, depending on the type of fracture and its location. Mild fractures may cause pain and discomfort, while more severe fractures may require medical attention and immobilization. Physical therapy can help to strengthen and restore mobility in the affected area.
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Treatment for fractures typically involves immobilization, such as a back brace, and pain medications. Surgery may be required for more serious fractures, while physical therapy can help strengthen the affected area and restore mobility.
4. Spinal Disc Injury and Degeneration
Spinal disc injury or degeneration can also cause upper back pain. A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like material between the vertebrae becomes damaged and pushes into the spinal canal. This can cause back pain, numbness or tingling in the affected area. Degeneration of the spinal discs can also cause pain as the discs degenerate and become less flexible.
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The treatment for these issues typically involves pain medications, physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery. Physical therapy can help strengthen and stretch the muscles, while surgery may be needed to repair the discs or shrink any bulging material to relieve the pressure.
People also Ask
What are the symptoms of upper back pain?
Symptoms of upper back pain can include pain, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. Other symptoms can include difficulty breathing deeply and a decreased range of motion.
Is upper back pain common?
Yes, upper back pain is quite common, particularly with people who are spend a lot of time in a seated position, such as at a desk or in a vehicle.
What is the best treatment for upper back pain?
The best treatment for upper back pain will depend on the cause. It may include medications, physical therapy, cold therapy, heat therapy, exercise, or lifestyle changes. Surgery may be needed in some cases.
What could be causing my upper back pain?
Possible causes of upper back pain include poor posture, muscle strain and injury, fractured bones, and spinal disc injury or degeneration.
How can I prevent upper back pain?
One of the best ways to prevent upper back pain is to maintain good posture. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve posture. Additionally, it’s important to take regular breaks from sitting and to avoid lifting or carrying heavy objects without proper technique.
Final Words
Upper back pain can have a variety of causes and can range from mild discomfort to severe, chronic pain. Being familiar with the causes and effects of upper back pain can help in diagnosing and treating the underlying issues. It’s important to take measures to prevent injury and maintain good posture in order to avoid unnecessary pain. Proper rest and exercise can also help in relieving and preventing upper back pain.