The thoracic spine, the part of the spine that starts just below the neck to half-way down the back, is often a neglected part of the body, which is surprising considering that it is as prone to stiffness as other parts of the spine, but not so surprising since it is a difficult area of the body to stretch.
A stiff thoracic spine can cause pain between the shoulder blades but can also cause excess loading of the lumbar spine, the neck and shoulders, which in turn can lead to pain in these areas as well as headaches.
Like so many other modern-day problems resulting from work, people who spend hours either in the car or sitting poorly in front of computer screens are particularly prone to thoracic stiffness, and the attendant problems this can cause. People with poor posture are also at risk. On a more general level, since the thoracic spine provides much of the rotation and extension of the spine required for athletes, anyone that plays sport is likely to find their movement restricted and performance limited by stiffness in this part of the spine. Injuries in other parts of the body may well follow as a result.
Our osteopaths will take a thorough history and conduct a physical exam to inform the development of a plan to correct the underlying problems. On examination it is very common to find lower back or lower neck problems that have contributed to the mid back pain.
Treatments our Osteopaths may use are:
- Mobilisation and manipulation to promote movement, relieve pain and improve function.
- Massage to help reduce muscle tension and pain and improve blood flow.
- Hot and cold packs to reduce pain and stiffness.
- Patient education on correct posture, chair and workplace ergonomics.
- Exercise prescription to stretch and strengthen the muscles of your back, shoulders, and stomach to help increase your flexibility, strength, and balance. Your Osteo may teach you an exercise program so you can do it at home.
- Rehabilitation is very important to prevent the pain from becoming chronic. Many patients are relieved from their mid back pain after a few visits and some patients benefit in maintaining Osteopathy care regularly because it keeps their bodies in optimum condition.
Osteopaths successfully treat mid back pain everyday so if you are suffering from pain seek help early, the longer you delay treatment, the longer it takes to recover.