Physical Therapist Questions Back Pain

What could be the reason behind mid back pain?

I have a severe pain in the middle of my back, which arises when I am in a particular position for a long time. This includes, sitting, sleeping or standing for too long. What could be the cause for this middle back pain? Is it a temporary phase or does it mean a problem in my back?

7 Answers

Dear FATD Patient,

With respect to your question, it sounds as though you are experiencing postural syndrome, which is likely due to maintaining a sustained posture for prolonged periods of time, as you alluded to. Was there a mechanism of injury associated with the mid thoracic back pain? I would suggest stretching of the anterior pectoralis muscles implementing the doorway stretch, and strengthening the periscapular muscles performing using theraband rows, extension, and other various exercises to strengthen the posterior musculature.
The give away in your sxs is the "particular position for a long time." It can indicate spine instability. However, without a full evaluation, it can be hard to tell. Find a PT to fully evaluate your condition. YouTube Awesome patient success story, Breaking through San Diego physical therapy. You will see a great example of what a great evaluation can do.
Mid back pain is the most uncommon, but like all spinal pains, the most common problems are fatigue related impingement (the muscles get tired and cannot maintain the structural stability after X amount of time in the same position), and hinging mechanics placing too much strain on a spot (rather than every bone contributing a fair share, stiffness in other areas forces the extra work elsewhere). If you are having severe pain, complete alleviation to be able to do whatever you want, as much as you want with no pain, is unlikely without fixing the problems causing the compensations. I would suggest having it checked out to find what is causing the severe compensations.
Mid-back pain can be caused by many things with the musculoskeletal system being just one of them. Do you recall an incident that may have precipitated the pain? A new exercise program, lifting routine, or perhaps sitting for longer than normal at a computer or tablet? A differential diagnosis will include pain referred from the lungs and even the gallbladder. If it is positional, it may more likely be due to muscle strain or a subluxation of the vertebrae. Does massage, heat, or rest improve it? Again, this would be more likely if it is coming from the muscles or spine. If it persists, I would recommend an X-ray.
Any time you are in a position for too long, your body responds with some type of discomfort because we are designed to move and designed to move frequently. It does not mean you have a problem in your back, however there could be some weakness present if you do a lot of sitting and also are not active outside of work.
This is tough to answer without performing a physical exam. However, possible reasons could be issues in your shoulder, hips or anywhere along the spine (low back, mid back or neck). That is why it's better if you were to be evaluated by a Physical Therapist.
If your mid back pain changes with movement or positions, than its more than likely a musculoskeletal problem (joint, ligament, disc, nerve, muscle). If its constant and you are unable to alleviate your pain, than you should immediately consult your physician as it can be related to your heart or other visceral/organ referred pain such as stomach, gallbbladder, kidney etc. It can be temporary but I am unsure unless i was to perform a physical examination. Also, pain itself is not a predictor of whats going on. If your pain goes away, you still may have the causes of your pain such as restrictions to your muscle, joints, nerves or weakness/lack of stability. Hopefully this helps and points you to the right direction. See a physical therapist for a evaluation. If you are located in North New Jersey area, give us a call