There are many sources of dysfunction in the upper back
(thoracic spine) especially when we consider the numerous joints and the
interlacing of muscles that comprise the thoracic spine and rib cage. If one
muscle or joint is injured or inflamed, it can create a cascade of pain and
dysfunction that can be difficult to treat.
Chiropractic treatment and upper back pain
The mid and upper back is known as the thoracic spine, it is
the largest portion of the spine, consisting of 12 of the 25 spinal bones
(vertebrae). In comparison the neck (cervical spine ) has 7 vertebrae while the
lower back (lumbar spine) has 5 vertebrae articulate with ribs and together
protect the thorax, hence the name, thoracic spine.
Upper back pain is a phenomenon that affects all age groups.
Upper back pain while common receives much less attention than neck and lower
back pain.
Thoracic disc herniation
Due to the limited motion in the thoracic spine, caused by
the bony barrier of the ribs, Thoracic disc herniations are relatively rare.
But when they do occur, they can create much pain and dysfunction.
Whenever practical and safe, conservative (nonsurgical)
care, such as chiropractic, is advisable prior to the use of more invasive
procedures, such as spinal injections or surgery.
The goal of the chiropractic treatment of thoracic disc
herniation is to reduce pain and dysfunction while the body heals itself.
Since most disc extrusions naturally regress in a few
months, chiropractors will attempt to reduce the pain and pressure caused by
the disc herniation.
Some chiropractors will recommend nutritional support to reduce the pain and swelling associated with a disc
herniation.
Myofascial pain syndrome
Fascia is a layer of connective tissue that contributes to
the supportive structure of the spine and musculoskeletal system. The fascia
invests or surrounds the muscles and allows for the smooth gliding of one
muscle upon another. Investing fascia helps to prevent muscles from adhering to
each other.
With injury, chronic postural stress or overuse, myofascial
trigger points or myfascual adhesions may develop – all commonly referred to as
myofascial pain syndrome.
Chiropractors treat myofascial pain syndromes such as
myofascial trigger points or adhesions with manual myofascial therapy. This
therapy normally includes the use of direct pressure upon the trigger point, or
the use of active anchor and stretch myofascial release techniques.
Joint dysfunction
The thoracic spine is a marvel of joint interaction and
complex motion patterns. Composed of a total of 220 separate joints, it makes
up the lion’s share of the 313 total joints in the entire spine. With this many
interactive articulation it is east to see that maintaining normal joint
function, motion and position is important. Chiropractors treat thoracic joint
dysfunction with chiropractic adjustments.
There are a variety of chiropractic adjustments techniques
that can be used to adjust a dysfunctional joint:
Most
chiropractors employ manual adjusting techniques that utilize precise thrusting
adjustments to help normalize joint function.
Chiropractors
can also use softer directional adjusting techniques or adjusting instruments
to accommodate the needs of the patient
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a disorder in which the nerves
of the brachial plexus and blood vessels are compressed. This compression can
cause great pain and altered sensations such as a “pins and needles” sensation
in the hands.
Treatment of thoracic outlet syndrome can include stretching,
manual trigger point therapy and myofascial anchor and stretch release
techniques to the affected muscles. Chiropractors may also include adjustments
and postural instruction.
Thoracic /shoulder dysfunction
The function of the shoulder and the upper back are
interrelated. Studies have shown that thrusting manipulations applied to the
thoracic spine and ribs have reduced should pain and dysfunction. Chiropractic
adjustments to the thoracic region can be beneficial to certain types of should
dysfunction.
There are many causes and treatment options for thoracic
spine disorders. Chiropractors have a wide range of treatment options for
treating these conditions. Chiropractors are increasingly joining collaborative
spinal care teams as a drug-free option for treating spinal and musculoskeletal
conditions.
Adapted from Spine-Health.com Newsletter
