Upper back pain can stem from poor posture. Those who work at a desk daily often experience this type of pain, according to Spine-Health.com. In rare cases, a serious medical condition could be the cause of upper back pain. For best results, consult your doctor if you have ongoing upper back aches.
Muscular Irritaion
Upper back pain is caused by lack of strength or overuse of the the muscles that connect the shoulder girdle bones to the shoulder blade bones. Injuries from accidents can also contribute to muscular irritation. Acupuncture, acupressure, massage and herbal remedies may help relieve pain and inflammation in the upper back.
Arthritis
The most common complaint of patients with arthritis, or inflammation of the joints, is pain in the upper back and neck, according to BackPains.org. A chair support system or therapeutic back pillow can bring relief. Anti-inflammatory medications will reduce the swelling that causes the pain. There are many over-the-counter products available, but check with your doctor before taking medications for back pain.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disorder caused by the loss of bone tissue. Upper back pain is a symptom of osteoporosis, according to Backzilla. As the bone loss increases, it negatively affects the structural stability of the upper back, resulting in pain. To prevent osteoporosis, take a supplement with calcium and bone-strengthening vitamins, eat a balanced diet, exercise, and avoid alcohol and smoking.
Thoracic Disc Disease
In rare cases, thoracic disc disease can be the cause of upper back pain. This is often referred to as a disc herniation or disc degeneration, according to J. Talbot Sellers, D.O. To check for thoracic disc disease, a doctor usually recommends diagnostic tests such as an MRI or X-ray. Surgery may be necessary, but only 1 percent of people with upper back pain actually have thoracic disc disease.
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