Back problems are one of the leading occupational hazards in the United States. Upper back pain is less common than lower back pain. The upper back is generally considered to be the thoracic cage. The thoracic cage consists of 12 spinal bones in their ribs. The spinal bones are connected with soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons and muscles. This skeletal structure is designed to protect the vital organs of the body.

The upper back tends to not move very much. Is designed to be sturdy yet have a level of flexibility to support standing upright. Other areas of the spine are more flexible and tend to move more. The neck, for instance, has a much greater range of movement and the upper back does.

The upper back has less movement than other areas of the spine. This generally helps to protect it from injuries since it has a lesser range of motion than other parts. However, there are many potential issues which can cause discomfort to this important region.

The upper back has two main functions in the body. The first is providing the major organs with a protective barrier. The second is to transmit the body weight between the head and the lower extremities. Although it is not move as much it must be flexible to help distribute weight of your body.

One common cause of upper back pain may simply be a strain or a sprain. This generally has to do with the soft tissues between the bones of the spine. They can become stretched or over utilize leading to injury. The other is classified as joint dysfunctions.

Soft tissue injuries usually involve either a sprain or a strain in the back. If the muscle somehow gets stretched excessively, this is termed as a muscle strain. In the case of a sprain, ligaments which hold the spinal bones together can be injured. These are the two most frequently cited causes of upper back pain.

The other common cause of discomfort and the upper back has to do with the soft tissues. The soft tissues hold the vertebrae together and maintain the flexibility of the spinal column. Pain can result from over exerting this area or from injury.

Many problems can arise in the back from simple tasks such as sitting. If you sit for long periods of time at work, there is potential to put stress and strain on the muscles of your back. You are sitting position is very critical as to how the weight of your body is distributed.

Arthritis is another potential problem for the upper back. The most common form is osteoarthritis. This condition occurs with the wearing down of cartilage around the joints. This can cause swelling, stiffness and aches. Other conditions affecting the upper back include fibromyalgia, osteoporosis and ruptured discs.

Since there are a variety of causes for upper back pain, there are also a variety of treatment options. In certain cases, surgery may be the only option. However, most injuries occur to the soft tissues which can be treated with physical therapy or chiropractic manipulation. Both of these involve the use of stretching, exercise and massage therapy. It is important to restore the flexibility of the spine and to build up its strength.

Always check with your physician and get a diagnosis as to your situation. There are quite a number of factors which can contribute to upper back pain. Your physician can run a number of tests to determine what issues may need to be resolved. They can also discuss with you treatment options available.

The good thing is that there are more treatment options available today than ever before. Doctors also reserve surgery as a last resort. There are many natural methods to help restore the health of your spine. Discuss with your health professional natural options which can help to reduce and relieve your upper back pain.

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