

However, something as simple as lifting or twisting while carrying too much weight can also lead to chronic back pain. Obvious sources of middle back pain include compression fractures caused by hard falls. So, if you’re experiencing this pain, you’re definitely not alone. Common Causes of Thoracic Spine PainĪ systematic review of studies on thoracic pain suggests there’s a “relatively high prevalence of in the general population”. Understanding these causes will help you avoid strain and injury to that section of your back. In addition, there are specific causes of thoracic pain you should know about. Just remember you may also feel pain in the ribs due to their connection with thoracic vertebrae. Middle back pain in the thoracic region isn’t very different. Reduced range of motion when bending or twisting.Many back pain symptoms are similar across the three regions and include: So, your thoracic spine is VERY important to your overall health and wellness. While you might not give your ribcage much thought on a daily basis, it’s actually the main structure that protects your vital organs. Each thoracic vertebrae attaches to your ribs and forms your ribcage. The thoracic spine, however, serves an additional function. Second, they provide structural support and balance to promote a healthy, upright posture. First, they help protect the spinal cord and nerve roots. Those three sections have very important jobs. There are also sacrum and coccyx vertebrae, but the big three are where the majority of injuries occur. Herniated discs and degenerative disc disease are common in the lower back, but can also cause upper back issues as well.įinally, the section between them is the thoracic spine. The lower back is your lumbar spine, while the upper section where your neck sits is the cervical spine. However, there are three main sections that make up your spinal column: the lumbar, cervical, and thoracic spine. If you run your hand down the center of your back (borrow a friend if you can’t reach!), you’ll feel some of the bumps making up the 33 vertebrae of the spinal column. We’ll cover symptoms as well as treatment options, but mostly we want you to know that you’re not alone and you have options.įirst, let’s give you a quick refresher on human anatomy. Today, we’re talking about thoracic spine pain.

Over time, the pain can keep us from doing what we love. In reality, it can mean sleepless nights, poor mobility, stress and anxiety, and more. If you or someone you know has dealt with chronic back pain, you already know exactly what we’re talking about.Ĭommon causes include sports injuries and poor posture, but that makes it sound pretty mild. It’s pretty hard to argue that back pain is one of the most debilitating chronic injuries you can experience.
