The upper back is called the thoracic spine. It is the most stable part of the spine, attaching the spinal column to the rib cage. The range of motion in this part of the body is limited, but that doesn't mean it is not susceptible to injury and pain. Upper back pain often manifests as a burning or pulling sensation in areas between the base of the neck to just below the ribcage. There are common causes of discomfort in the upper back region, and spinal adjustment can help alleviate the pain.

What Could be Causing the Pain in Your Upper Back?

1. Poor Sitting Posture

Sitting for hours in an office chair that is not ergonomic or designed specifically for long hours in a work environment can result in slumping and slouching that puts stress on the neck and upper back muscles. How you sit can help minimize this type of upper back discomfort. When seated, push your hips to the back of your chair and keep your feet flat on the floor. This should help straighten your spine and neck and prevent injury and pain. 

2. Excessive Stress

Life can be stressful. Tensing up in stressful situations can increase neck and upper back strain. Although you can't always avoid life stressors from emotional or physical problems, you can help to alleviate their impact on the muscles in the top portion of your back by stepping away, when you can, from the situations causing your anxiety. Take work breaks, call a friend for comfort or a laugh, or take a relaxing walk around the neighborhood to unwind at the end of a hectic day.

3. Accident Injury

Car crashes often take a toll on the neck and upper back from tensing and jarring, causing upper back pain that could worsen over time. A spinal adjustment and other treatment from a reputable chiropractor can help alleviate the pain from an injury resulting from a vehicular accident.

4. Muscule Use

Another common cause of upper back pain is the overuse of the muscles in that body area. Overuse can result from gym workouts, but your body is also susceptible to injury from everyday activities like stooping to clean floors, improperly bending to lift heavy items, or performing repetitive motions for your job. You can ask your chiropractor for an adjustment to minimize discomfort and avoid additional injury. Also, take breaks from repetitive activity and stretch before workouts.

If you need relief and treatment for upper back pain, contact Walch Chiropractic Center in Birmingham, AL. Their team specializes in pain management using chiropractic therapy and spinal adjustment. With over 27 years of experience, they strive to provide residents throughout the Tri-State area with relief from common causes of discomfort without the need for surgery. Call (205) 699-4433 to schedule an appointment, and visit the website to learn more about their services.