Pain in the upper back, whether it is upper left back pain, upper right back pain, or cervical pain, is discomfort or strain that you feel anywhere from your neck to your bottom rib. This area includes part of the middle back for pain purposes. Additionally, shoulder pain may be related to a problem in your upper back.
Minor or Serious, Never Unimportant
Because your upper back is composed of several strong muscles attached to the rib cage and vertebrae, or spinal bones, it’s relatively more resistant to injury. But this also means that pain in the upper back could be a symptom of a serious underlying cause.
The most common general causes of upper back pain include:
- Muscle irritation
- Joint dysfunction
- Trauma
Muscle irritation stems from strains, pulls, or tightening due to poor posture, a lack of strength or overuse— the same causes as injuries from repetitive motion. Joint dysfunction can result from sudden injury or age-related illness, like osteoarthritis.
Other, less common causes of pain in your upper back include:
- Spine deformities
- Compression fractures
- Fibromyalgia
- Infections
- Tumors
Upper Back Pain Relief: Closer Than You Think
Seek immediate medical attention for sudden traumatic injuries, persistent pain that does not improve with rest, or any associated neurological symptoms. Seemingly minor discomfort can mask more significant underlying conditions. Identifying the root cause of your pain requires the expertise of a highly trained pain management specialist.
Our board-certified back pain doctors diagnose and treat upper back pain resulting from conditions ranging from minor strains to severe injuries. A detailed history of your symptoms, lifestyle, and family tells the pain management doctor how to proceed to provide upper back pain relief. A quick and thorough exam may lead your doctor to order diagnostic testing. If left untreated, upper back pain can lead to a diminished quality of life or even chronic disability.
Treatment for Upper Back Pain
The treatment options the doctor may suggest if your discomfort seems mild include lifestyle modifications, medication, ice or heat. Regular exercise, good posture and avoiding repetitive stress helps keep your back healthy.
If your upper back pain persists, injections can relieve your pain.
Options the top back pain specialist in Midtown Manhattan may suggest include a nerve block injection as well as:
If your injury or damage is severe enough, you may require minimally invasive treatments, such as:
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Leon Reyfman, MD, FIPP, RPh
(Pain Management Doctor)