Mid-Back Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options - Orthopedics

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Mid-back pain can be a complex issue, often stemming from various causes, including muscular strain, spinal problems, or even referred pain from internal organs. Based on your description, it seems that your pain began after a medical examination where pressure was applied to your spine. This raises a few possibilities regarding the underlying cause of your discomfort.


Possible Causes of Mid-Back Pain
1. Muscle Strain: The most common cause of mid-back pain is muscle strain. This can occur due to lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, or even prolonged poor posture. If the doctor pressed on your back and you experienced pain, it’s possible that the pressure exacerbated an existing strain or caused a new one.

2. Spinal Issues: Conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis can lead to pain in the mid-back. While you mentioned that you did not feel pain until after the examination, it’s possible that the pressure applied during the exam revealed an underlying issue that was previously asymptomatic.

3. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the back can be referred from other areas, such as the gastrointestinal tract. Given that you had previously experienced severe pain while swallowing, it’s worth considering whether there might be a connection between your digestive health and your back pain.

4. Nerve Compression: If there is any nerve involvement, such as from a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, this could lead to pain that radiates through the back and may worsen with certain movements or positions.


Diagnosis
To accurately diagnose the cause of your mid-back pain, a thorough evaluation is necessary. This may include:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess your range of motion, strength, and any areas of tenderness. They may also perform specific tests to determine if nerve involvement is present.


- Imaging Studies: If the pain persists or worsens, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be warranted to visualize the spine and surrounding structures. These can help identify any structural issues, such as disc herniation or spinal alignment problems.


Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management: Initially, conservative treatments are recommended. This includes:
- Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.

- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the back and improve flexibility.

- Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat can help relax tense muscles, while ice can reduce inflammation.

2. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can help manage pain and inflammation. If the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications.

3. Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation around the affected nerves or joints.

4. Surgery: If conservative treatments fail and there is significant nerve compression or structural issues, surgical options may be considered. This is typically a last resort.


Conclusion
Given that your pain has persisted for a month and has not improved with home treatments, it would be advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation and determine the most appropriate course of action. It’s essential to address both the pain and any underlying issues to prevent further complications and improve your quality of life. Remember, early intervention often leads to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice.