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Upper Back Pain Symptoms

Upper back pain symptoms are generally caused by muscle strain or ligament sprain in the cervical (neck) or thoracic (upper and middle back) regions of the spine, normally as a result of repetitive activity or poor posture. This kind of pain can generally be managed through the use of over-the-counter pain medication, and rarely lasts longer than a few months.

When Pain Becomes Chronic

However, if upper back pain symptoms persist for longer than three months, the pain is classified as chronic and you should visit your doctor for a diagnosis. When chronic pain strikes, there is a chance that the anatomical structure of the spine itself might be compromised by a degenerative condition such as osteoarthritis. Bone spurs, herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and other conditions might be behind your chronic neck or upper back pain, in which case you should work with your doctor to formulate a plan for treatment.

Types of Symptoms

One of the first steps your doctor will take as he or she searches for a diagnosis will be to ask you to describe your back pain symptoms. Here is a brief summary of symptoms typically associated with degenerative spinal conditions:?

• Radiating pain – also known as traveling pain or referred pain, it originates at the site of the nerve compression and moves down the nerve pathway into other parts of the body, such as the arms or chest.
• Localized pain – it’s not always the case, but occasionally pain will develop at the site of the nerve root impingement; it can be sharp or dull
• Tingling – also known as paresthesia, it’s similar to the uncomfortable sensation you feel when you strike your “funny” bone
• Numbness – a partial or complete loss of sensation
• Muscle weakness – this might manifest itself in a diminished ability to grip or lift objects

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Treatments for Upper Back Pain

While most of these symptoms can be managed through a course of conservative treatment, surgery might become an option if chronic pain persists for several weeks or months. When upper back pain symptoms disrupt your quality of life, Laser Spine Institute (LSI) offers a gentle, endoscopic alternative to traditional open back surgery. Contact LSI to learn more about how to achieve back pain relief, or for a free review of your MRI or CT scan.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.