Mid-back Pain

The thoracic spine, or mid-back area, is less likely to have painful conditions than the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) spine. The thoracic spine is well-supported by the rib cage and chest muscles, helping to protect it from injury. When there is mid-back pain, it is often a musculoskeletal issue that heals quickly with conservative treatments. However, there are possible conditions that affect the thoracic spine and cause mid-back pain. Our pain specialists at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine will help diagnose and treat upper or mid-back conditions to give patients relief.

When mid-back pain occurs, it is usually easier to identify the source of pain than with the neck or lower back. The cervical and lumbar spine are common areas for pinched nerves that cause pain without an identifiable cause. However, pain stemming from the mid-back is usually a mechanical or spinal structure issue. Nerves can be irritated or compressed, but it is usually due to vertebrae, facet joint or disc damage or degeneration. Osteoporosis, arthritis, degenerative disc disease and vertebrae fractures are common structural issues in the thoracic spine that could be the source of mid-back pain.

Treatments for Thoracic Spine Conditions

Mid-back pain is less common than other spinal conditions and usually easier to treat. In many cases, thoracic spine conditions respond well to conservative treatments and are less likely to require surgery or more invasive treatments. Our pain physicians coordinate treatment plans for patients with mid-back pain that can include physical therapy, myofascial release, anti-inflammatory injections and other non-invasive treatments that are customized to the patient.

If you have been experiencing ongoing mid-back pain and want to explore treatment options for relief, contact Medici Orthopaedics & Spine today to schedule your consultation to begin your journey to freedom from back pain. We have locations in the Atlanta area for treatment of spinal conditions, rehabilitation and pain management.