Physical Therapist Questions Back Pain

Is there any way to get relief from pain in my mid-back?

I have a sharp pain in the middle of my back. Sometimes it goes away with pain relievers, but it usually comes back. Are there any exercises to get rid of this pain?

9 Answers

Middle of the back pain sounds like it could be from the thoracic/lumbar junction which is a common 'hinge' point for most folks who aren't regularly training. Essentially instead of using the vertebrae as segmental movements, we will hinge at that junction which then over-stresses the area and causes some symptoms; generally local to the area with a wrapping sensation on occasion that flares out to the sides/underarm. PT can help, generally improving extension patterns helps these kinds of folks in my clinic.
Sure, extension and stretching exercises will help your condition if it's muscular in nature. But I think you need to see your primary care physician for diagnosis, because pain in the mid back could be another serious problem, including heart conditions.
Yes, for this pain, PHYSICAL THERAPY can help you. You need an assessment to see where the pain comes from.

Regards,

Ramky
The question is what is causing your back pain? Do you have poor posture? You should see a physical therapist for further evaluation to see why you are having this issue
Mid back pain can be an indication of a heart condition. It could also be poor postural control and mobility. I recommend a referral to a physical therapist who has a history in manual therapy through the spinal column.
The goals of any physical therapy treatment plan are to reduce pain, increase function and provide a maintenance program for back pain and sciatica. Typically, the treatment plan is comprised of two components-active exercises and passive modalities. The exercise regimen may consist of strengthening, stretching and aerobic conditioning. Core muscle training is also a part of a good lower back pain treatment plan. It’s important that these exercises are done properly and consistently.

Passive modalities used in a physical therapy treatment plan for back pain and sciatica may include heat and cold therapy, ultrasound and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) units. Heat and cold therapy are used to reduce muscle spasm, inflammation, and pain. With ultrasound, deep heating is applied to the soft tissues through sound waves. It is known not only to help relieve pain but to enhance healing. A TENS unit uses electrical stimulation to override pain signals sent to the brain. If it is successful, a TENS unit can be used long term.

All around, research has proven that physical therapy is effective for those who suffer from back pain or sciatica pain. It’s also safe. That’s why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highly recommends it. “Physical therapists partner with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals to manage pain, often reducing or eliminating the need for opioids. Research has shown that a simple education session with a physical therapist can lead to improved function, improved range of motion and decreased pain.”
Yes. Go see your local Physical Therapist for specific exercises to treat your specific presentation. Best of luck.
This sounds like something that a physical therapist could help you and guide you through. Your best bet is to schedule an appointment with someone for an assessment.
There is, but you would need to be evaluated by a physical therapist to make sure there is nothing else going on. Just taking pain relievers may be masking the problem. Remember, pain is a symptom, not a cause. Pain indicates something may go wrong, not necessarily something is wrong also. Tough to answer with the information provided.