What causes distending pain in the upper back?
Dec 04, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
There are many possible causes of distending pain in the upper back, including back muscle strain, cervical spondylosis, cholecystitis, and angina pectoris. When patients engage in strenuous upper-limb exercises such as badminton or tennis, they may suffer muscle strain in the back area, leading to discomfort such as local soft tissue pain and swelling. This pain may also radiate to the upper back, causing a sensation of distension and pain.
There are many possible causes of pain and distension in the upper back, which may be due to factors such as back muscle strain, cervical spondylosis, cholecystitis, or angina pectoris. It is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital for proper diagnosis and differentiation.
1. Back Muscle Strain
Patients who engage in strenuous upper-limb activities, such as badminton or tennis, may experience muscle strain in the back area. This can lead to discomfort including local soft tissue pain and swelling, which may radiate to the center of the upper back and cause a sensation of distension and pain. X-ray or CT scans can be performed promptly to assess the injury. If the strain is mild, management may include rest, ice packs, and heat therapy.
2. Cervical Spondylosis
When degenerative changes occur in the fourth, fifth, or sixth cervical vertebrae, they may affect the posterior branches of the corresponding spinal nerves, causing back pain accompanied by symptoms such as arm weakness and finger numbness. For severe pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen capsules or meloxicam tablets may be taken under medical guidance. Additionally, neurotrophic agents like vitamin B tablets or mecobalamin tablets may help relieve nerve compression symptoms.
3. Cholecystitis
This condition is a chemical inflammation caused by gallstones, inflammation and swelling of the cystic duct, or parasitic infestation (e.g., roundworms). It typically presents with pain in the upper abdomen or right upper quadrant, which may radiate to the back. Under medical supervision, antibiotic treatment—such as clindamycin capsules or ceftriaxone sodium injection—may be used. In some cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) may be necessary.
4. Angina Pectoris
This condition results from myocardial ischemia and hypoxia, often manifesting as sudden, crushing chest pain that may radiate to the back, causing a sensation of distension and pain in the upper back. Symptoms may be relieved by medications such as nitroglycerin tablets or suxiao jiuxin pills, taken strictly as prescribed by a physician.
In addition, conditions such as chronic pancreatitis and myocardial infarction may also cause pain and distension in the upper back. Prompt medical consultation is essential to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
