What causes soreness and pain in the upper back?
Dec 02, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Soreness and pain in the upper back may result from local soft tissue contusion or fracture of the scapula following trauma to the back. It could also be caused by prolonged exposure to cold or engagement in heavy physical labor, leading to chronic injury of the back muscles and fascia. In cases of coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction, symptoms such as angina or chest tightness may occur, and when the pain radiates to areas such as the shoulders or back, similar symptoms can appear.
Acidic pain in the upper back may be related to trauma, lumbar muscle strain, or heart disease.
1. Trauma
If the back suffers trauma, it may lead to local soft tissue contusions or fractures of the scapula in the upper back, causing a sensation of sourness and pain. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and receive targeted treatment based on the severity of the injury.
2. Lumbar Muscle Strain
Long-term exposure to cold or engaging in heavy physical labor may cause chronic damage to the muscles and fascia in the upper back region, leading to aseptic inflammation. When inflammatory exudates irritate peripheral nerves, the aforementioned pain can occur. It is recommended to visit an orthopedic department to determine the underlying cause, then choose appropriate therapies such as acupuncture or massage according to the severity of the condition to alleviate symptoms.
3. Heart Disease
Conditions such as coronary artery disease or myocardial infarction may cause symptoms like angina or chest tightness. When the pain is severe and radiates to the shoulders or back, it can also manifest as soreness and pain in the upper back. It is advised to identify the cause at a hospital and actively treat the underlying disease to improve symptoms.
Besides the above, similar symptoms may also arise after intense exercise due to lactic acid buildup, or conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis. It is recommended to undergo appropriate diagnostic evaluations at a hospital and receive symptomatic treatment accordingly.
