Upper Back Pain Treatment

“Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down each leg, becomes irritated or compressed. This can cause sharp, radiating pain, numbness, or tingling, affecting your ability to sit, stand, or walk comfortably. With proper diagnosis and targeted treatment, most cases can be managed without surgery. If you are experiencing sciatica, I can help guide you toward relief and recovery.”

-Dr. Anatoly Pisman, MD

What is Upper Back Pain?

Upper back pain refers to discomfort in the thoracic spine, the area between your neck and lower back. This region is designed for stability rather than flexibility, but it can still be affected by muscle strain, poor posture, or underlying spinal conditions. Pain may feel localized or may radiate into the shoulders, neck, or chest depending on the cause.

Common Causes of Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain is often related to lifestyle habits, posture, or structural issues within the spine. Prolonged sitting, especially with poor ergonomics, can place stress on the muscles and joints of the thoracic spine. Conditions such as posture and tech neck syndrome are increasingly common due to extended screen time.

Other causes may include disc-related conditions like thoracic herniated discs, as well as spinal curvature disorders such as scoliosis and kyphosis. Muscle strain, overuse, and poor body mechanics can also contribute to ongoing discomfort.

Symptoms of Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain can present in different ways depending on the underlying cause. Some patients experience a dull, aching sensation, while others notice stiffness or tightness that limits movement.

Common symptoms include discomfort between the shoulder blades, muscle tightness, and pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or poor posture. In some cases, nerve involvement may cause tingling, numbness, or radiating pain into the arms or chest. Recognizing these symptoms early can help guide appropriate treatment and prevent worsening of the condition.

When to See a Doctor

Medical evaluation is recommended if upper back pain persists, worsens, or interferes with daily activities. Pain associated with numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty maintaining posture should be assessed promptly. Early diagnosis can help identify the underlying cause and prevent long-term complications.

Diagnosis & Testing

Diagnosis begins with a detailed review of your symptoms and a physical examination focusing on posture, spinal alignment, and muscle function. If needed, imaging such as X-rays or MRI may be used to evaluate structural conditions in the thoracic spine. In cases involving nerve symptoms, EMG/NCV testing may be recommended to assess nerve function.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Most cases of upper back pain can be treated without surgery. Treatment focuses on improving posture, strengthening supporting muscles, and reducing strain on the spine. Physical therapy, targeted exercises, and activity modification are commonly used to restore function.

In some cases, treatments such as trigger point injections may be recommended to relieve muscle tension, while epidural steroid injections can help reduce inflammation when nerve involvement is present. A personalized treatment plan helps address the underlying cause and improve long-term outcomes.

What to Expect at Your Visit

During your visit, your symptoms, posture, and daily habits will be evaluated to identify contributing factors. A physical examination will assess muscle tension, spinal alignment, and any signs of nerve involvement. Based on your evaluation, a customized treatment plan will be created to relieve pain, improve posture, and restore mobility.