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Upper Back Pain Treatment in Marysville, WA

Health First Chiropractic Marysville - Upper Back

While low back pain is one of the most common reasons to consult a chiropractor, upper back pain is another problem from which many people suffer. The thoracic part of the spine is the largest section and is comprised of 12 vertebrae, plus many muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Any one of these structures may cause problems if it is injured or inflamed. Here is more on upper back pain and how a chiropractor can help, courtesy of Health First Chiropractic, Marysville WA.

upper back pain

Common Causes of Upper Back Pain

As with any other area of the spine, injuries can cause problems in the upper back. Auto accidents and falls are two common sources of injury. Your posture can also be a source of pain. Many people tend to carry the head thrust forward and round the shoulders, especially those who spend long hours working at a desk. The fascia which covers muscles and prevents them from rubbing together may begin to stick to other fascial layers, causing adhesions. This restricts movement and can result in pain. Although less common than it is in the lower back, a spinal disc may rupture and put pressure on the spinal cord.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

In most cases, it’s pretty easy to diagnose upper back pain by assessing a patient’s posture, range of motion, and reports of pain. Pain may occur along the spine or in the rib cage and may radiate to other areas as well. In some cases, X-rays or other diagnostic imaging studies may be helpful, especially when there is a possibility for something like bone spurs or a ruptured disc. A condition known as thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when nerves and blood vessels in an area called the brachial plexus are compressed. In that case, there may also be pins and needles sensations in the hands along with upper back pain.

How a Chiropractor Can Help

Myofascial therapy is the use of direct pressure on myofascial trigger points. Active stretch and release exercises can also help loosen adhesions. Acupuncture and acupressure are two methods used by some chiropractors to help relieve pain and reduce muscle tension and spasm. Adjustment and distraction, the application of traction to help separate the vertebrae, is another possible technique. Postural analysis and corrective exercises are vitally important for those whose posture is a source of upper back pain.

If you suffer from upper back pain, please contact Health First Chiropractic Marysville at (360) 658-1987. Identify yourself as a new patient and receive a complimentary consultation. Our office is located at 1519 9th Street, Suite 101 in Marysville WA. We treat patients of all ages and offer evening and Saturday hours for your convenience.

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Office Hours

June 4th they will be open 8am-10am by appointment only

Monday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

appointment only

Saturday:

8:00 am-10:00 am

once a month or by appointment only (whichever we can do) - no new patients

Sunday:

Closed