Middle Back Pain: Causes and Treatments

Statistics:

• According to the American Chiropractic Association, 31 million Americans experience back pain at any given time (read more).
• 8/10 people experience back pain in their lifetimes - National Institute of Health (read more).
• It is responsible for around 60% of cases of people missing work (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• Scoliosis
  
  This is an odd shaped spinal cord disorder that causes mild to severe discomfort in the mid spine area. It is sometimes referred to as curvature of the spine. Scoliosis can also cause pain on other parts of the body besides the back. This condition curves the spine from the sides, giving it an S or C shape. There are several different causes of Scoliosis, but muscle imbalance and genetics are the most common causes.
  
  As simple diagnosis: you may realize that one of your arms seems to be larger than the other due to Scoliosis. Additionally, you may realize that the neckline of your shirt is never straight and that one of your shoulders hurts persistently.
  
  
• Herniated Disc
  
  Herniation describes an abnormality around the intervertebral disc, and is also known as ruptured, slipped or torn disc. The process occurs when the nucleus pulpous or the inner core of the intervertebral disc bulges out through the outer layer of ligaments surrounding the annulus fibrosis.
  
  The bulge or break on the spongy discs that cushion the spine put pressure on the nerves coming out of the spine. The pressure can lead to midback pain if it occurs in the thorasic vertabrae. Usually, patients complain of sharp, cutting sensations around the spinal area.
  
  
• Fractured Vertebrae
  
  Fractured vertebrae occurs when one or more of the spinal bones crack or break. The vertebral components may fracture like any other bone in the body. The fractures often occur due to traumatic injuries on the spine, but can also occur due to a combination of low bone density and obesity. The dorsal side of the vertebral structure is one the most common areas that suffer fractures. In addition, fractures can also occur in the transverse or spinous processes and the pedicle, lamina or facet joints. The fracture in the spinous processes lead to sharp discomfort.
  
  
• Spinal Stenosis
  
  Spinal stenosis is a major cause of chronic middle back pain through nerve compression and conditions such as sciatica. Spinal stenosis discomfort around the neck can be very dangerous particularly through spinal cord compression. The ache can eventually lead to general body weaknesses or paralysis. The nerves of the spine innervate areas away from the spine and any inflammation, compression or irritation of the nerves may result in acute or permanent radiculopathy. Sometimes, the onset of mid-back sensations may be followed immediately by bladder or bowel control problems.
  
  
• Muscle Sprain
  
  Muscle sprain is one of the typical diagnosis for muscular discomfort in the mid spine regino. Diagnosis of the sprain is usually used in describing a condition in which a ligament or muscular is overstretched and torn to some degree. A serious detachment or tear in a muscular is usually known as strain. The diagnosis in most cases, is made based on clinical observations without the benefit of imaging study.

Prevention

• Ergonomic Chairs
  
  Investing in a suitable office chair may significantly reduce the occurrence of painful joints and spinal discomfort. A properly selected ergonomic chair which encourages correct posture can effectively prevent discomfort and injury.  
  
  Things to look for in an ergonomic chair:
  - Adjustability to make sure the head, wrists, and back are in ergonomic conformity.
  - A rolling base
  - Affordable price
  
  A popular ergonomic solution found to be very popular in today's marketplace is the yoga ball chair (see image on right). These chairs allow the body to come into perfect posture without any effort from this sitter. You can find reviews on these chairs at http://www.yogaBALLchairs.com.
  
  
• Yoga Therapy
  
  Yoga imparts several health benefits to any individual. Some of the benefits are specifically for the back, others benefit the general health of the body. Yoga increases flexibility and stretches muscles and ligaments. Most importantly, it improves posture which in turn helps in reducing spinal problems.
  
  
• Massage
  
  Massage reduces muscle tension and ache. It is also great as it improves blood flow which in turn prevents heart attacks.

Medical Treatments