Middle Back Pain: Causes & Treatment
Have you ever felt that uncomfortable ache between your shoulder blades that just won't go away? Middle back pain is more common than you think. At Arka Anugraha Hospital in Bangalore, we see many patients struggling with this problem every day.
Your middle back (thoracic spine) includes twelve vertebrae protecting your spinal cord. When something goes wrong here, it can affect daily activities like sitting or lifting.
What Causes Middle Back Pain?
Unlike lower back pain, middle back pain has distinct triggers. Here are the most common ones:
Poor Posture
Slouching at computers or looking down at phones strains muscles between shoulder blades. Like stretched rubber bands, they get tired and hurt.
Muscle Strain
Sudden twists, lifting incorrectly, or new workouts can cause tiny tears in muscles and ligaments, leading to sharp pain.
Herniated Discs
Discs acting as shock absorbers can bulge and press on nerves. Pain may travel around the ribcage or into the chest.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (wear and tear) causes stiffness and grinding sensations, especially in people over 50.
Common Symptoms
- Aching or burning between shoulder blades
- Muscle tightness/stiffness
- Sharp pain when breathing deeply
- Pain spreading to chest/ribcage
- Pain worsening after sitting for long periods
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
We use physical exams and imaging (X-rays, MRI) to diagnose the cause. Treatment typically follows a stepped approach:
1. Conservative Treatment
Short rest (1-2 days), Ice/Heat therapy, OTC pain relievers, and posture correction.
2. Physical Therapy
Stretching to improve flexibility, strengthening core/back muscles, and posture training.
3. Medical Interventions
For severe pain: Prescription meds, Cortisone injections, or nerve blocks.
4. Surgery
Rarely needed. Only considered if conservative treatments fail and there is a clear structural problem.
How to Prevent Middle Back Pain
- Maintain Posture: Keep shoulders back, chin tucked.
- Ergonomic Workspace: Screen at eye level, feet flat on floor.
- Exercise: 30 mins moderate exercise (swimming/walking) most days.
- Lift Properly: Bend at knees, not waist. Don't twist.
- Manage Weight: Reduces stress on the spine.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek professional help at Arka Anugraha Hospital if you experience:
- Pain not improving after 2 weeks
- Severe pain interfering with daily life
- Pain with fever, chills, or weight loss
- Numbness, weakness, or tingling in legs
- Sudden pain after a fall
Get Relief from Back Pain Today
Don't let middle back pain control your life. Our multidisciplinary team offers personalized care to help you return to pain-free living.
Contact Arka Anugraha Hospital in Bangalore for a consultation.
Book Your Appointment Now