Pain in the upper back or mid-back can radiate into the shoulder blades or chest.
– tears in the outer 1/3 of the disc which increase probability of disc bulges and herniations.
– an actual bulging of the disc in one area.
– partial tearing of the ligaments surrounding the facet joints in the spine, or facet joints actually locking or being limited in their normal motion.
– causing forward head, shortening of the anterior muscles of the neck and shoulders, lengthening and weakness of the posterior muscles of the shoulders and upper back.
– since the ribs attach to the spine and the sternum, certain injuries can cause a slight subluxation of the rib head at the spine leading to pain into the chest as well.
All of these conditions contribute to muscle spasms since muscle spasming is the body’s way of protecting itself when something in the spine is injured or not functioning properly.
- always on acute injuries of any type.
– causes increased inflammation in acute injuries.
– to reduce disc involvement and inflammation.
– to increase upper back stability and postural stability.
(passive physical therapy) to decrease inflammation and muscle spasming.
– to decompress discs, reduce bulges, assist healing and ensure proper tissue reformation.
– improves and increases joint mobility in the spine including facet joints.
- Treatment should progress into a more specific exercise program for directional exercise and stabilization.
Medication can cover up the existing mechanical cause of your condition, and rehabilitation that doesn’t include specific and extensive exercising, plus instruction on how to manage pain when not in the clinic won’t solve problems of pain. Additionally, in cases of acute pain, there may be medical conditions (for example, annular tears) requiring early intervention to avoid chronic problems. If leg pain or changes in sensation occur, seek medical care. |
