What causes pain in the upper part of the back?
Nov 11, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, possible causes of upper back pain may include improper posture, muscle strain, lumbar disc herniation, osteoporosis, myofascial inflammation, and others. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo targeted treatment under a physician's guidance. Specific analysis is as follows: prolonged sitting or standing in poor posture, or engaging in heavy physical activities.
Generally, the causes of upper back pain may include improper posture, muscle strain, lumbar disc herniation, osteoporosis, and myofasciitis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo targeted treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Improper Posture: Long-term incorrect sitting or standing postures, such as hunching or looking down, may cause back muscle tension and nerve compression, thereby causing back pain. Improving posture is key. It is recommended to adjust sitting and standing positions regularly and use ergonomically designed chairs.
2. Muscle Strain: Poor sitting or standing posture over a long period or engaging in heavy physical activities, especially when the upper back bears excessive pressure, can easily lead to muscle strain. Pain can be relieved through rest, warm compresses, and massage. It is important to adjust sitting and standing postures and avoid maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods.
3. Lumbar Disc Herniation: When the nucleus pulposus protrudes from a ruptured annulus fibrosus and compresses the nerve roots, it can cause radiating pain in the lower back and back regions. Pain may be accompanied by symptoms such as numbness in the lower limbs. Medications such as Gentongping Granules, Yaotongning Capsules, and Duhuo Jisheng Pills may be used under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.
4. Osteoporosis: This metabolic bone disease involves reduced bone mass, which may lead to fractures and consequently cause back pain. Symptoms may include spinal deformity and curvature. Treatment may involve medications such as alendronate sodium enteric-coated tablets, vitamin D3, and calcium gluconate oral solution, under a doctor's supervision.
5. Myofasciitis: This condition typically involves aseptic inflammation of the muscles and fascia. The inflammation may irritate surrounding soft tissues, leading to back pain. Local tenderness and muscle tension may accompany the pain. Medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, eperisone hydrochloride tablets, and celecoxib capsules may be taken under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.
Normally, it is important to avoid excessive fatigue and cold exposure. If upper back pain persists or worsens, seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
