Pain in the upper back, or “dorsalgia”, can have a number of causes, some of which do not warrant, or are not amenable to, specific medical treatments.
In this article, we’ll look at the most common causes, as well as possible treatments to relieve upper back pain.
Causes
First of all, let’s stress that we’re not talking here about back pain in the cervical or neck area, but in the dorsal vertebrae (just below).
The pain can be intense, sometimes incapacitating, and has many causes. And although, as we indicated in the introduction to this article, certain types of pain do not justify or allow specific medical treatment, they can all be relieved with symptomatic treatments.
On the other hand, it’s very important to know if you need immediate medical attention. For example, in the following cases:
- weight loss that can’t be explained;
- A backache that never goes away, even after following our advice;
- high fever (38° or more);
- Sharp pain in your chest or upper back;
- Sharp pain in your lower legs or below the knees;
- A recent accident or injury to your back ;
- Fecal incontinence;
- Inability to urinate;
- Urinary incontinence;
- Numbness around your genital tract or anus;
- You have had or have cancer;
- You are over 55 ;
- You are on drugs;
- Have taken steroids in recent months;
- You have undergone chemotherapy and your immune system is weak ;
- Your back pain is still as bad after 5 days.
Once again, if you are experiencing any of these problems, in addition to your back pain, visit your doctor as soon as possible!
Among the best-known causes are the so-called “degenerative” ones, linked to aging bones, such as arthrosis.
Mechanical causes are also common, and are linked to poor posture. They are often linked to work, especially when this involves carrying heavy loads.
Repeated physical trauma during sport, as well as inflammatory causes, are also among the origins of this type of back pain.
Fractures of the vertebrae due to falls or advanced osteoporosis can also cause back pain.
A sedentary lifestyle, prolonged sitting or standing, vibrations in the car, stress, and a history of unrecognized trauma, are all also common causes of back pain.
Being overweight, pregnancy and menopause can also lead to back pain.
Finally, in some cases, back pain can be the result of heart or lung disease.
Treatments
Treatment of upper back pain depends primarily on its cause. Pain in the bones, viscera, muscles, nerves, etc. will not be treated in the same way.
Rest and back pain
Rest is the first recommended treatment during the acute phase of pain. But it remains controversial, as it is not necessarily beneficial in the long term.
Indeed, after a short rest, it’s best to try (as far as possible) to resume your daily activities. By doing so, your back will not lose muscle strength and will be able to remain active. In many cases, a long period of rest will only aggravate the trauma and pain.
If you are unable to move, contact a doctor immediately.
Analgesic and anti-inflammatory
The first medical treatment consists of analgesics, enteral (oral or rectal) or parenteral (intramuscular or intravenous) anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants. They are mainly prescribed for moderate pain.
Infiltrations can also relieve back pain. These are injections of intra-articular anti-inflammatories, performed by a specialist such as a rheumatologist or radiologist. They are particularly indicated when you suffer from back pain that is incapacitating and resistant to painkillers.
Surgical operation
In certain situations, you have no choice but to turn to surgery. For example, in the case of a compressive herniated disc.
So it’s important to bear in mind that if your back pain is persistent (lasting more than a few days), you really should consult your doctor.
Relieve and prevent
Pain in the upper back is generally preventable.
Here are a few tips to relieve or prevent future pain in this area…
Sport
A muscular back is a healthy back, with less risk of trauma. Physical activity is essential at any age. However, some sports can be more dangerous than others for your back’s health.
Violent sports such as rugby, boxing, trampolining, body-building, extreme sports, etc., can cause more harm than good. However, if they are supervised by professionals and practised sensibly, they should not be avoided.
Sports that are almost risk-free and will help you have a healthier, more supple back are: walking, swimming, cycling and abdominal exercises. Note that a good abdominal belt provides better protection and helps support your spine.
Nutrition
It goes without saying that a person who is overweight is more likely to suffer from upper back pain. The “fatter” you are, the more your spine will have to bear the load. Obese people are more likely to adopt poor posture on a daily basis.
Diet can therefore play an important role in the health of your back. Try to give priority to vegetables and white meats, while reducing the amount of fast sugars and saturated fats you ingest.
Finally, a recent study has shown that smoking increases your risk of back pain, as well as its intensity…
Stress
If you’re stressed, you’re at risk of back pain. Especially if they already suffer from upper back pain. If this is your case, consider giving yourself moments of relaxation, try yoga, or repeat positive phrases in your head.
Never forget that the body is linked to the mind. So take care of both to be in tip-top shape.
Posture
The way you sit, sleep, work, drive and use your smartphone are all high-risk actions for your back. So make sure you always optimize your posture, whatever the circumstances. When lifting a heavy object, remember to bend your legs rather than arching your back.
Massages
Professional massages, or even by your partner, can be beneficial for your back pain. However, be careful not to have your spine massacred by incompetent people.
Lumbar belt
A lumbar belt can sometimes be useful, although it’s generally more suitable for lower back pain. This belt will relieve the pressure on your intervertebral discs. Strongly suggested for people with very physical jobs, where they often have to bend down: garbage collectors, movers, workers, etc.
Homeopathic remedies
Homeopathy is a good complement for relieving upper back pain. A natural solution can sometimes save you from having to resort to chemical drugs. Ask an organic specialist for advice.
Alternative medicine solutions
A host of possibilities exist in this field. Acupuncture, homeopathy (as mentioned above), aromatherapy, oligotherapy… are just some of the options you can consider.
Article by : Francis Galineri | Review guidelines | Review consultants
Last updated on 19 February 2025.
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