Thoracic Back Pain Red Flags

Thoracic back pain is a type of pain that occurs in the upper and middle back. The thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae that protect the chest and vital organs. When these vertebrae become damaged or grown, it can cause thoracic back pain. This pain can range from mild to debilitating, making everyday activities difficult.

According to the American Chiropractic Association, as many as 31 million Americans experience lower back pain at any given time. Luckily, treatments are available to help lessen the symptoms of thoracic back pain. In this blog post, the experts in sports therapy near me will discuss the symptoms and risk factors of thoracic back pain red flags, as well as some treatment options.

Symptoms of Thoracic Back Pain

One of the most common thoracic back pain red flags is a dull, aching pain in the middle or upper back. This pain may worsen when you bend over, twist your torso, or spend long periods of time sitting or standing. Other symptoms include muscle tightness and spasms, difficulty breathing, and numbness or tingling in the arms or legs.

Am I at risk for thoracic back pain?

There are several risk factors that are commonly known as thoracic back pain red flags. While this is not a fool-proof list, it may help you decide if the pain you are experiencing could be related to thoracic pain.

Thoracic back pain red flags include:

• Poor posture
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Scoliosis
• Muscle strain or injury
• Disc degeneration
• Obesity

If you are experiencing any or a combination of these symptoms in addition to your back pain, it may be time to visit your team of sports therapists near me at Peak Physical Therapy.

Treatment Options for Thoracic Back Pain

Thankfully, several treatment options work to treat those diagnosed with the above thoracic back pain red flags. The most common treatment options include physical therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and electrotherapy. Surgery is also an option in severe cases where other treatments have been exhausted.

The professionals in sports therapy near me conduct an examination where we identify your pain, pinpoint your symptoms, and develop a customized physical therapy plan that alleviates and treats your symptoms. If you are experiencing thoracic back pain, it is imperative to talk to our team of sports therapists near me so they can help you find the best treatment option for you.

Peak Physical Therapy | Physical Therapy Professionals

Thoracic back pain can be painful and debilitating, but recovery is possible with the help of Peak Physical Therapy! If you resonate with these thoracic back pain red flags, talk to your leading sports therapists near me. Your physical therapist will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. They may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to get a better look at your spine. Upon diagnosis, we work with you to develop a treatment plan that's right for you. Visit the Peak Physical Therapy website or contact us today to learn more about how we can treat your thoracic back pain red flags.