Mid Back Pain Treatment in Dublin 2
Mid back pain affects the thoracic spine, the area between the base of the neck and the lower back. Symptoms can include aching or sharp pain, stiffness, restricted movement and discomfort when twisting, bending or taking a deep breath.
At Dublin 2 Chiropractic, we regularly assess and treat patients with mid back pain. Problems involving the joints, muscles and surrounding structures of the thoracic spine can all contribute to pain and restricted movement.
Treatment is based on your symptoms and examination findings and may include chiropractic care, mobilisation, exercise and movement advice.
Understanding Mid Back Pain
The thoracic spine consists of the twelve vertebrae in the middle part of the back. Unlike the neck and lower back, each of these vertebrae also connects with the ribs, meaning that movement of the thoracic spine and rib joints is closely related.
Mid back pain can be associated with:
- Restricted or irritated joints in the thoracic spine
- Muscle tension or strain
- Prolonged sitting or repetitive activities
- Sports or exercise-related injuries
- Restricted movement of the rib joints
- Degenerative changes in the thoracic spine
Symptoms may include a localised ache or sharp pain, stiffness through the middle of the back, restricted rotation or discomfort that extends around the ribs or towards the shoulder blade.
Because the ribs attach to the thoracic spine, mid back problems can sometimes occur alongside rib pain or discomfort with certain movements or breathing.
Your Mid Back Pain Assessment
Your first appointment begins with a consultation to understand your symptoms, how the problem developed and which movements or activities aggravate the pain.
This is followed by a physical examination of the thoracic spine and surrounding areas. We may assess spinal and rib movement, muscle function, posture and other movements relevant to your symptoms.
The examination helps us identify the likely source of your mid back pain and recommend a treatment approach based on your individual findings.
Occasionally, pain felt around the mid back or chest may have a cause outside the musculoskeletal system, which is one reason an appropriate history and examination are carried out before treatment.
Chiropractic Treatment for Mid Back Pain
Chiropractic treatment for mid back pain is tailored to the structures involved and the findings from your examination.
Chiropractic adjustments: Adjustments can be used to improve movement in restricted joints of the thoracic spine and help reduce pain and stiffness.
Joint mobilisation: Gentler mobilisation techniques may also be used to improve movement in the thoracic spine and associated rib joints.
Exercise and movement advice: Exercises may be recommended to improve thoracic movement, strength and tolerance to everyday activities.
Activity and posture advice: Where relevant, we may discuss working positions, prolonged sitting, exercise or other activities that appear to be contributing to your symptoms.
Your progress is reassessed throughout care so that treatment can be adjusted according to how your pain, stiffness and movement are responding.
Mid Back Pain and Rib Pain
The ribs attach directly to the thoracic spine, so movement of the mid back and rib joints is closely connected. A restricted or irritated rib joint can sometimes produce pain around the middle of the back, alongside the spine or around the chest wall.
When rib involvement appears to be contributing to your symptoms, we assess the thoracic spine and rib joints together. You can learn more about our approach to rib pain.
Book a Mid Back Pain Assessment in Dublin 2
If you are experiencing persistent or recurring mid back pain, stiffness or restricted movement, we can assess the problem, explain what we think is contributing to your symptoms and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Your first appointment includes a consultation and physical examination, followed by an explanation of our findings and recommended treatment options.
Dublin 2 Chiropractic is located at 79 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2, overlooking Merrion Square.
