Middle Back Pain
Middle back pain is an increasingly common ailment. Luckily, for most people middle back pain is relatively easy to fix. Symptoms associated with middle back pain can vary and there could also be a wide range of causes. However, most cases turn out to be relatively simple, common problems that are usually treated quickly.
The middle back is composed of 12 vertebrae which are part of the thoracic section of the spine. These bones protect the spinal cord. Between each of these bones are discs of cartilage which act as shock absorbers due to their elasticity and help with movement. There are also muscles and tendons that are responsible for providing stability to the back.
There are many different problems that could arise creating middle back pain. Most often muscle strains are the most common cause of pain. These can occur as the result of lifting heavy objects, exercising too much, or even suddenly twisting or bending can often cause muscles in the middle back to be come overworked and strained. In addition, bad posture, not sleeping right, and obesity are also common causes of middle back pain.
Herniated discs also account for middle back pain. When this occurs, a bulged develops in between the vertebrae, causing it to spill out into the spinal column. This can create severe pain, and it can also cause a nerve in the spinal column to become pinched. When this occurs, pain is not only present in the middle back, but it can also radiate throughout the lower extremities.
Aging also has negative effects which can cause middle back pain. Arthritis is a common disease that develops among people as they age. This condition causes inflammation of the joints. Sometimes, this inflammation can become so great that not only can there be difficultly moving, but inflammation and swelling might also be so great that it could even cause nerves in the spinal column to become pinched. Years of wear and tear on the spine can also cause the cartilage to become worn and thin. When the cartilage between the vertebrae thins, moving can become very painful and difficult. Osteoporosis is also a disease that causes bone density to decrease. This increases the likeliness of bone fracture, even when lifting everyday objects.
As already mentioned, most cases of middle back pain can be attributed to strained muscles. Luckily, this condition can be relieved by simple means. Usually, rest is the first thing recommended by doctors. Itís important to avoid activities that could make the condition worse, so itís important to stop lifting and stop exercising. Applying ice packs followed by applying heating pads can also help the tension with a sore muscle. Sometimes physical therapy may be recommended. This is a great way to learn the necessary exercises and stretches that can significantly reduce back pain while also strengthening the back, preventing addition instances of middle back pain.
Surgery may sometimes be required for middle back pain. If conservative treatments do not improve middle back pain after several weeks, or if the pain and symptoms worsen during that time, surgery may need to be considered. If a nerve is pinched for example surgery is sometimes necessary to remove the pressure that is being placed on it. Luckily, surgery is not usually required for the majority of middle back pain cases.
Prevention of middle back pain is also very important. Stay clear of smoking and make sure to exercise regularly. This will help maintain your proper body weight and also strengthen the muscles throughout the body, helping to prevent injury. Also, before exercise it is important to stretch the muscles out. In addition, ease into an exercise routine so that you donít overdue it. Also, having good posture is a way to keep the middle back from getting sore. If most of these methods are maintained, your chances or preventing further middle back pain will be greatly improved.