Upper back pain is a common health issue that affects many people and can interfere with the quality of their daily life. Although lower back pain is more frequent, pain can also occur in the upper back pain, with different types of pain associated with specific causes. In this article, we explain how to recognize the type of pain and understand the possible causes.
A case of inflammatory upper back pain
Let’s consider an example: Katie, who suffers from arthritis, has begun to notice upper back pain that does not improve when resting and gets even worse when she lies down, making it difficult to sleep.
This case illustrates inflammatory pain, a type of pain typically experienced by in people with a rheumatic disease such as arthritis. Unlike mechanical pain, inflammatory pain improves during activity and worsens when at rest, especially during the night.
Types of upper back and neck pain
We define the upper back as running from the base of the neck to the bottom of the rib cage (thoracic spine). Discomfort in this area can be caused by overexertion, poor posture, or injury. The main types of upper back pain are:
1. Mechanical pain
This is the most common type. It accounts for approximately 90% of cases of upper back pain. Mechanical pain intensifies with movement and decreases with rest, although its exact origin is sometimes unclear.
2. Inflammatory pain
As in Katie’s case described above, inflammatory pain does not improve with rest and can become worse during the night. It is characteristic in people with arthritis or other rheumatic diseases and is usually relieved by physical activity.
3. Neuropathic pain
This type of pain stems from compression or irritation of the nerves, and is usually described as a sharp stabbing, burning pain, or even like an electrical shock.
Specific location: thoracic or cervical spine
- Thoracic spine: Pain located in the middle of the back. If it is of mechanical origin, it is usually related to overexertion or poor posture, and it limits the patient’s mobility.
- Cervical spine: Pain located in the neck, also called cervicalgia. Pain in this area is most often caused by torticollis, and the pain may radiate to the shoulders, arms and head.
Primary causes of upper back pain
Upper back pain affects about 1 out of 10 men, and 1 out of 5 women. The most frequent causes include:
1. Poor physical condition and poor postural habits
When someone is out-of-shape, with muscles weakened by lack of exercise, or if they spend long hours hunched over in front of a computer, it can lead to tension and pain in the upper back. Taking breaks to move around when sitting for long periods or holding the same posture for too long is a good way to prevent this kind of discomfort. There are specific exercises that can help as well.
2. Traumatic injury
Muscles and joints can be injured in an accident, a bad fall, or by lifting heavy items improperly. In these cases, a medical examination is the best way to avoid complications, as some injuries may require surgery.
3. Herniated discs
Although disc hernias are more common in the lower back, they can also occur in the upper back. A damaged disc can press on nearby nerves and cause pain, although most cases do not require surgery.
4. Osteoarthritis
The bones of the spine are protected by cartilage, and wear and tear on the cartilage can allow the vertebrae to rub against each other, resulting in mechanical pain. In these cases, it is essential to practice exercises like Pilates to strengthen the spine and reduce the friction.
5. Spinal infections
Infection is not a common cause of upper back pain, but cases do occur. An infection in the spine may cause epidural abscesses (collections of pus) that can cause severe pain. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent serious complications.
If you suffer from upper back pain, don't wait for it to get worse! At Instituto Clavel, we have the best spine specialists and advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques designed to relieve your pain and help you recover your quality of life. Schedule an appointment now, with professionals you can trust for the quality healthcare your back deserves!
Dr. Javier Giner
Neurosurgeon
Categories: Spine treatments, Spine pathologies, Cervical pain