Dorsalgies
Definition:
Often referred to as dorsal pain or thoracic back pain, are discomfort or pain localized in the middle or upper back region, specifically between the shoulder blades and along the thoracic spine. While not as common as low back pain, dorsalgies can still significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
Principal causes:
Muscle strain: Overuse, poor posture, or sudden movements can strain the muscles and ligaments in the middle and upper back, leading to pain and stiffness.
Poor posture: Prolonged sitting or standing with rounded shoulders, slouched posture, or forward head position can place excessive stress on the muscles and ligaments of the thoracic spine, contributing to pain and discomfort.
Thoracic disc herniation: Herniation or bulging of the discs between the vertebrae in the thoracic spine can compress nearby nerves and cause pain, although this is less common than in the lumbar spine.
Thoracic spine arthritis: Degeneration of the joints in the thoracic spine due to wear and tear over time can lead to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
Fractures or injuries: Traumatic injuries such as falls, car accidents, or sports-related injuries can cause fractures, muscle strains, or ligament sprains in the middle or upper back, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Symptoms:
Localized pain: Pain or discomfort in the middle or upper back region, which may be dull, achy, or sharp in nature.
Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and mobility in the thoracic spine, particularly after prolonged periods of inactivity or upon waking in the morning.
Muscle tension: Tightness or muscle spasms in the muscles of the middle or upper back, which may exacerbate pain and limit range of motion.
Radiating pain: Pain that radiates from the middle or upper back to the shoulders, neck, arms, or chest, although this is less common than in the lower back.
Our Treatment as a EvivaPHYSIO:
Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Heat or ice therapy: Applying heat packs or ice packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy: Specific exercises and stretching techniques to strengthen the muscles supporting the thoracic spine, improve flexibility, and promote proper posture.
Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, spinal manipulation, or mobilization performed by a qualified healthcare provider to relieve muscle tension and improve spinal alignment.
Postural correction: Practicing proper posture and body mechanics during daily activities, including sitting, standing, and lifting.
In severe or persistent cases of dorsalgies, other treatment options such as epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, or surgery may be considered.
The prognosis for dorsalgies depends on various factors including the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual response to treatment. In most cases, middle and upper back pain improves with conservative measures and self-care strategies. However, it is important to seek medical attention if dorsalgies persist or worsen, or if they are accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or loss of bowel or bladder control. Early intervention and appropriate management can help alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent long-term complications.