Causes for Middle Back Pain

As far as back pain is concerned, lower back is the most vulnerable area. But, some people develop pain in the middle region of the back. In other words, you can define middle back as the area between the upper back and the lower back. Technically, middle back is that part that houses the lower thoracic spine, which is located just below the upper thoracic spine (in the upper back) and the lumbar spine (in the lower back). Though, the condition is not common as lower back pain or neck pain, middle back pain is not rare. The causes and symptoms may not be the same for all. It may happen that some people develop middle back pain, all of a sudden, whereas in others, it could be gradual. For some, this pain could be sharp and lasts for a short duration, while others experience dull pain for longer duration. Normally, middle back pain is caused by certain problems involving the muscles, ligaments or joints of that region. Apart from these, there are many other reasons that may lead to this condition. Let us take a look at the various causes for middle back pain.

What Causes Middle Back Pain?

As mentioned above, middle back houses the lower thoracic spine and various other structures like blood vessels, muscles, ligaments and tendons. Any problem with these structures may cause middle back pain. It may also happen that medical conditions that affect other parts of the body, cause pain in the middle back. Even lifestyle factors can cause this condition.

Muscle Sprains/Strains

According to some studies, muscle strains and sprains are the most common causes of middle back pain. The muscles and ligaments on the back perform the function of supporting the spine and the ribs. They take on the stress caused by the daily physical activities like sitting, walking, running, exercising, etc. Excessive stretching of these muscles may cause tearing of its tissues, which results in pain and inflammation. This condition is called muscle strain. Likewise, a tear in the ligaments causes a sprain. Sitting for longer periods of time, wrong exercise or over exercising can cause pain in the spinal region of the middle back, which may radiate to the neighboring areas too. In normal cases, the pain due to the sprain or strain may last for up to ten days. In case of sprain/strain due to some trauma or injury, it may take two to three days for the pain to develop. If the pain is unbearable or if it persists for more than ten days, consult your doctor as soon as possible. Muscle spasms may develop as a result of strains and sprains. Spasms, which are uncontrollable contractions of muscle tissues, can accentuate the middle back pain. Muscle spasms may also occur as a result of some back injury, dehydration etc.

Herniated or Slipped Disc

Middle back pain can also be caused by a herniated or slipped disc. The vertebrae are separated from each other with cartilaginous discs, which act as shock absorbers. Slipped disc is characterized by the bulging out of the intervertebral cartilaginous disc from its normal position, thereby applying pressure on the adjoining nerve bundles. This may cause inflammation and pain that can spread to either sides of the spine or downwards. Herniated disc in the middle back is considered a serious condition with severe complications. But, the good news is that it is very rare, as herniated disc commonly develops in the lower back.

Other Middle Back Pain Causes

• Trauma to the middle back can also cause pain in area. It could be anything like a fall on the back, direct blow or a vehicle accident. Such injuries may include serious conditions like spinal fracture. A broken rib or spinal fracture may cause sharp pain while breathing.
• Other causes for middle back pain include structural problems like scoliosis and kyphosis. Weak abdominal muscles may sometimes cause this condition.
• Some people may develop spinal tumor or cancer or bone marrow cancer, that could be the reason behind pain in the middle back.
• Joint disorders like arthritis and osteoarthritis are among the common causes for middle back pain, as they cause inflammation of the joints. In such cases, the pain may worsen with movement or during cold weather.
• Medical conditions like osteoporosis, osteomyelitis, spinal stenosis and spondylitis, may also cause pain in the middle back. Even spondylosis and Paget's disease can cause such pain.
• Middle back pain causes include lifestyle factors like poor posture and total lack of physical activities. Obesity and smoking are also linked to middle back pain, in certain cases.
• Pregnancy is another condition that can cause pain in the middle back. Aging is another factor, which can cause such back pain. The wear and tear caused by aging can deteriorate the condition of cartilages and bones.
• Some people develop middle back pain due to heart disease, cholecystitis and pancreatitis. Another medical condition that is associated with middle back pain is fibromyalgia.
• Kidney infection and kidney stones are also among the middle back pain causes. In case of infection, pain while passing urine and/or bloody urine may be experienced. Those with kidney stones have middle back pain that radiates to the groin.
• Anxiety and stress are also found to associated with this type of back pain. Lack of sleep is said to be a possible cause for middle back pain.
• Some people experience an intense pain in the middle back, after having food. This may be due to stomach ulcer. Sometimes, excess gas produced in the stomach may exert pressure on the middle back region, which can result in pain.

The above said is only a brief overview about causes for middle back pain. While most of the middle back pain causes are minor, you should seek immediate medical attention in case of severe and/or persistent symptoms. The same applies to those with additional symptoms. Diagnostic procedures for middle back pain may include blood and urine tests, X-rays, CT scan, MRI, electromyogram, etc. Rest is the best remedy to get relief from middle back pain, if the symptoms are mild. Ice application may prove beneficial to reduce the pain. Avoid activities (like bending, lifting heavy weights, running, cycling, etc.) that can aggravate the condition. Sometimes, physiotherapy, healing massage and heat therapy are also suggested by doctors to de-stress and strengthen the muscles on the back. Medication like pain killers, muscle relaxants and NSAIDs may be prescribed by your doctor. Lifestyle changes are also recommended. If the condition is due to some other diseases, treatment should be aimed at the primary cause rather than the back pain itself. You can prevent middle back pain to some extent by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and by controlling the body weight. Adopt a well-balanced and nutritious diet that is rich in calcium. Maintain the correct posture and strengthen your back with proper exercises.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.