What causes pain in the right upper back?
Disease description:
I have been experiencing persistent pain in my right upper back recently, especially after prolonged sitting or physical exertion, when the pain becomes more pronounced. I would like to know what could be causing pain in the right upper back.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Right upper back pain is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors. The following are some common causes of right upper back pain:
1. Muscle strain: Prolonged maintenance of the same posture, such as sitting or standing for long periods or engaging in repetitive physical labor, may lead to overuse of the back muscles, causing strain-related pain.
2. Cervical spondylosis: Degenerative changes in the cervical spine or unhealthy lifestyle habits may lead to cervical disc protrusion, compressing adjacent nerves or blood vessels, thus causing radiating pain in the right upper back.
3. Kidney disease: The kidneys are located on both sides of the waist; therefore, problems such as kidney stones, kidney infection, or kidney cysts may cause pain in the right upper back. This type of pain is usually severe and may be accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, or painful urination.
4. Gallbladder and liver diseases: Cholecystitis, gallstones, or liver disease may also cause pain in the right upper abdomen, which can radiate to the back, especially worsening during deep breathing.
5. Nervous system diseases: Sciatica can also cause back pain. In addition, herpes zoster may present with similar neuralgic symptoms before an outbreak.
6. Digestive system diseases: Digestive system diseases such as gastric ulcers and pancreatitis may also cause back pain, particularly after eating or at night.
If the pain persists or is severe, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately.
