If you've been taking pain medication for treating upper back pain but get only short-term relief, then chiropractic care at Graham Chiropractic Neck and Back Wellness Center may be your ticket to lasting pain relief. The high-level chiropractic care provided by our licensed Modesto chiropractor, Dr. Graham, is safe and non-invasive. With this natural alternative treatment, there is no need to worry about the side effects produced by painkillers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids or opioids.
Causes of Pain in the Upper Back
Pain in the upper back originates in the thoracic region of the back. It is often linked to medical conditions and injury of the thoracic spine resulting in spinal damage or misalignment (subluxation) that affects the spine, nerves, or soft tissue such as the muscles, tendon, ligaments, and other connective tissue. Injury may stem from:
- A fall
- Auto accident
- Sports or work injury
- Poor posture
- Repetitive use or overuse
- Improper lifting techniques
Medical conditions include:
- Bulging discs
- Herniated thoracic discs
- Spinal curvature, ex., Scoliosis
- Myofascial pain (muscle tension or irritation)
- Compression fractures
- Fibromyalgia
- Spinal compression
- Arthritis, e.g., osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Symptoms of Upper Back Pain
The following symptoms may be mild to severe pain, come and go, or persist.
- A sharp stabbing pain
- A burning sensation
- Joint or tissue inflammation
- Muscle aches, stiffness, or weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Referred pain in the shoulder, neck, lower back, arm, chest, or legs
How Pain in the Upper Back is Diagnosed
During the evaluation, you're asked questions about your symptoms and lifestyle habits. A physical examination is done and typically includes palpations and testing range of motion. Diagnostic imaging tests such as x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can detect damaged or dislocated joints or intervertebral discs, inflammation, and spinal nerve compression.
Upper Back Pain Treatment by Our Chiropractor
Pain in the upper back is typically treated with chiropractic adjustments which involve the use of manipulation techniques that target the underlying cause to stop the pain and prevent it from recurring. Dr. Graham will adjust the spine using spinal manipulation techniques. Gentle force is applied to the misaligned joints to nudge them back in place and relieve pressure on nerves and herniated or bulging discs. Spinal decompression is effective in stretching the spine with the use of motorized traction to relieve compression of the spinal cord and nerves.
Book an appointment with our Modesto chiropractor
Back pain management at Graham Chiropractic Neck and Back Wellness Center, in Modesto, is comprehensive and provides lasting relief of acute and chronic pain in the upper back. To promote overall wellness, massage therapy, physical therapy, and corrective exercises may be included in the treatment plan. The end result is less pain and inflammation, improved range of motion, and stronger muscles. Call us today at 209-545-8727 to book a consultation.