Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Back pain

I have been experiencing severe pain in the upper left part of my back (about five centimeters below the shoulder) for the past couple of days.
It hurts a little when I breathe, and the pain intensifies with movement.
Even lying flat or on my side is extremely painful, and getting up or lying down is almost unbearable.
The only time I feel relatively comfortable is when I am standing or sitting still.
I would like to know if there are similar cases.
The pain feels like a cramp and usually occurs suddenly in the morning after waking up.
This is the third occurrence in the past year; the previous two were around the lower left back area, but this time it has shifted upward.
Previously, I managed to feel better after taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which diagnosed it as inflammation of the kidney meridian.
However, I would like to know which direction to take for prevention to avoid future occurrences.
Which specialty in Western medicine should I consult?

Hong Xiao Miao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/21

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello, it could possibly be a cervical or thoracic spine issue, a myofascial problem, or it may involve the thoracic and abdominal organs.
It is advisable to first consult with an internal medicine specialist, specifically in pulmonary medicine or gastroenterology.
If internal organ issues are ruled out, you can then see a spine neurosurgeon to assess whether it is related to the spine.
Wishing you well.
// Director Lai Chao-Kang, Spine Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/04/21

More Info

Upper back pain, particularly in the area you described (left upper back near the shoulder), can be quite debilitating and is often caused by a variety of factors. Understanding the underlying causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for effective management and prevention.

Causes of Upper Back Pain
1. Muscle Strain: One of the most common causes of upper back pain is muscle strain. This can occur due to poor posture, overexertion during physical activities, or even sleeping in an awkward position. If you’ve recently engaged in activities that require lifting or twisting, this could be a contributing factor.

2. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis can lead to nerve compression, resulting in pain that radiates to the upper back and shoulders. This type of pain may be accompanied by tingling or numbness.

3. Injuries: Previous injuries to the back or neck can lead to chronic pain. If you have a history of trauma, even if it seems minor, it could be a factor in your current pain.

4. Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia can cause inflammation in the joints and muscles of the back, leading to pain and discomfort.

5. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the upper back can be referred from other areas, such as the heart or lungs. If you experience additional symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms
The symptoms you described—sharp pain when breathing, difficulty moving, and pain that worsens with certain positions—are indicative of a potential muscle strain or nerve issue. The fact that the pain is worse in the morning could suggest that your sleeping position or mattress may be contributing to the problem.

Treatment Options
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Initially, it’s important to rest the affected area and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. However, prolonged inactivity can lead to stiffness, so gentle movements and stretches are encouraged.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. If the pain persists, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles of the back and improve flexibility, which may help prevent future episodes of pain.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can provide relief. Cold therapy can reduce inflammation, while heat can help relax tense muscles.

5. Posture Correction: Improving your posture, especially if you spend long hours sitting or working at a computer, can significantly reduce strain on your back. Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace may be necessary.

6. Alternative Therapies: Some individuals find relief through acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, or massage therapy. These therapies can help alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation.

7. Consultation with Specialists: Given that this is your third episode in a year, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. A primary care physician can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a specialist, such as an orthopedist or a neurologist, if necessary. They may recommend imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs to rule out structural issues.

Prevention
To prevent future occurrences of upper back pain, consider the following strategies:
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity that includes strength training and flexibility exercises.

- Ergonomics: Ensure your workspace is ergonomically friendly to reduce strain on your back.

- Mindfulness of Posture: Be conscious of your posture throughout the day, especially when sitting or lifting objects.

- Sleep Hygiene: Evaluate your mattress and pillow to ensure they provide adequate support.

In conclusion, upper back pain can arise from various causes, and understanding these can help you manage and prevent future episodes. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional medical advice is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing upper back pain for almost two weeks. I have applied topical analgesics and taken muscle relaxants, but there has been no improvement. I wonder if this is related to the fact that I was bedridden for an extended period due to a cold the pre...

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation
This is a consultation platform and cannot provide a diagnosis. Neuromuscular tissue lesions in the shoulder and neck area can potentially cause related symptoms. It is advisable to try applying heat to the affected area and to enhance stretching exercises. If symptoms persist or...

Understanding Upper Back Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions

A few months ago, I suddenly experienced sharp pain in my lower back and upper back at night. The pain did not alleviate whether I was sitting, standing, or lying down, and it became unbearable. I went to the emergency room, where I underwent a urinalysis and X-rays. The doctor e...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
To-Lily: There are many causes of upper back pain. It could be related to the spine, muscles, or nerves. It is recommended to schedule an appointment with a neurologist or orthopedic specialist for a physical examination and further management.

Understanding Chronic Upper Back Pain: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing upper back pain for eight months. It all started when I began high school; I found the school chairs very uncomfortable. Being a sensitive person, I started to feel pain in my upper back the next day after sitting in those chairs. However, i...

Dr. Lai Yanting reply Rehabilitation
Approximately 50% of adolescents have experienced back pain. Common causes of back pain in adolescents include poor posture, life stress (leading to muscle tension), anxiety, and lack of sleep. If any of the following symptoms occur, immediate medical attention should be sought, ...

Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dear Sir/Madam, My father, who is about 55 years old, has been suffering from upper back pain for the past year. Whenever he is exposed to wind, the pain in his upper back becomes unbearable. This is especially challenging during the hot summer months, as he is reluctant to use ...

Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Lene: Back pain is often caused by diseases related to muscles, nerves, bones, or the lungs. Although your father has undergone a health check-up with no significant abnormalities found, it is unclear what the specifics of the examination were, so we cannot determine if it ruled ...