Upper Back Pain

Inactive Lifestyle

If you do not play sports, stretch, go for walks or run, you are at an increased risk of getting a back injury. In contrast, active individuals move their back and belly muscles to support the spine and are, therefore, less likely to have upper back pain.

Overweight

Note that the spine supports your entire torso weight. Belly fat is a massive problem because it puts too much strain on your back. You are more likely to experience back pains due to the excess weight.

Psychological Conditions

According to experts, individuals suffering from anxiety and depression are prone to back pain. It would help if you engaged in different activities to reduce stress and anxiety.

Upper back pain is easily preventable when you lift correctly, attain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, take breaks from sitting too long, and practice good posture. It also helps to stop smoking.

Your doctor will start with a physical examination to determine the exact location of the pain. Note that the doctor will probably need to carry out an X-ray to get to the bottom of the problem. You will need advanced testing in severe cases that includes CT scans, bone density tests, nerve studies, and blood tests.

In complex situations, your condition may be referred to a pain specialist. If so, your treatment may include steroid injection, radiofrequency ablation, nerve block, or spinal cord stimulators. The treatment option will depend on the severity of the pain.