Mid-Back Pain
The area falling below the neck, above the bottom of the rib cage and in-between the shoulder blades is recognized as the mid-back area. Many patients are unaware of what makes their back ache. Generally, unless there is a physical blow to the area, understanding what makes the back hurt needs more investigation. Mid-back pain can be mild or severe. Approximately 80 percent of back pain is short-lived. Only 5 to 10 percent is chronic. The pain in this section of the back is usually caused by a trigger because most people live with unknown back issues. An individual's diet may be a trigger. Other causes involve the spine and ribs. Overuse, strains, stress from emotional situations can contribute mid-back pain.
Causes
Muscles that haven't been used much can become strained. The smallest bend or turn in the back can cause pain to be felt the next day. For example, moving furniture, beginning an exercise program after being sedentary for a while, or a car accident may result in a muscle strain. A frequent diagnosis among patients is a misaligned lower back or neck. The pain will be at its peak for up to three days. It takes a couple of weeks for it to heal completely, as long as there aren't any strained ligaments. The process could take up to 12 weeks if the injury is more serious. In some cases, a hospital stay is required.
Additional Causes
The ribs are attached by the middle back or the thoracic spine. If an injury is sustained to the front of the body, effects will shift to the middle back. Since the muscles between the ribs attach to the middle spine, it is felt in the middle back and may cause problems with breathing if the injury is severe enough. This happens when a nerve that trails along one of the ribs in the thoracic cage is inflamed. The discomfort is sudden and can deteriorate with added movement. This is known as intercostal neuralgia. Coughing, breathing, reaching and not sitting correctly are examples that can aggravate the condition. This problem is generally a neuro-musculoskeletal issue, the system that allows movement and protects the organs. Medication may be administered to aid with the pain, but only bed rest and natural remedies are preferred methods to assist in the healing process.
Dietary Effects
There also has been a report of the effect of too much sugar causing mid-back pain. There are 12 pairs of spinal nerves that travel from the mid-back, many are digestive nerves. The nerves going to the organs that regulate blood-sugar control come from the middle part of the spine. Patients that have reported eating certain foods, then experience back pains have been able to diagnose the issue with their doctor. In order to properly diagnose the problems of the mid-back, testing must be completed through a doctor.
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