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Upper Back Pain

Back Massage

Upper back or "thoracic" pain can encompass a range of conditions. It might feel like there's a knot in your back or it feels like there's something under your shoulder blade. This can be very frustrating if the issue persists and can even get in the way of doing your job well or whatever else it is you love. The thorax is one of the most complicated parts of the human body. It serves as the centre of all movement and also the attachment of a lot of important anatomy. To sum it up, effective treatment of upper back pain needs a thorough assessment and skilled practitioner (especially if it's been going on for a while). 

Common conditions that can manifest in the upper back include:

  • A thoracic ring restriction

  • Ankylosing spondylitis

  • Muscle strain

  • Costovertebral and zygapophyseal joint injuries

  • Visceral and dural restrictions

  • Pain from the shoulder blade (scapula)

physiotherapy

Commonly, structures in the upper back can be overstressed from simple things like your sitting posture, a weakness of the shoulder girdle and prior neck injuries. Treatment might include:

  • Hands on treatment to reduce pain and improve movement in the area

  • A full body assessment to understand the root of your issue

  • A personalised strengthening program to stop the problem from returning

  • Discussion around lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the problem

  • Get you sleeping better and back to doing what you love without pain

Learn more about how integrative physio can help you.

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