Thoracic Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatments

Thoracic pain, or mid-back pain, occurs in the area between the neck and lower back. While less common than cervical or lumbar pain, it can still significantly impact daily life. Some cases involve thoracic radiculopathy, where nerve compression leads to radiating pain, numbness, or weakness. Understanding the causes and treatment options can help you find relief.

Common Causes of Thoracic Pain

Mid-back pain can result from various conditions, including:

• Muscle Strain – Poor posture, overuse, or repetitive movements
• Herniated Discs – Disc bulging or rupture pressing on spinal nerves
• Degenerative Disc Disease – Age-related wear and tear in the thoracic spine
• Osteoarthritis – Joint degeneration causing stiffness and inflammation
• Scoliosis or Kyphosis – Abnormal spinal curvature leading to pain
• Spinal Stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves
• Trauma or Fractures – Injuries from falls, accidents, or osteoporosis

Thoracic Pain with Radiculopathy

If thoracic pain is accompanied by radiculopathy, nerve compression in the mid-back can cause:
✅ Radiating Pain – Spreads around the ribs, chest, or abdomen
✅ Numbness & Tingling – Sensations in the torso or upper back
✅ Muscle Weakness – Reduced strength or difficulty with movement

Treatment Options for Thoracic Pain

Whether your pain includes radiculopathy or not, multiple treatment options are available:

Non-Surgical Treatments

✔ Physical Therapy – Strengthens muscles and improves posture
✔ Chiropractic Adjustments – Helps realign the spine for pain relief
✔ Medications – NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications
✔ Postural Corrections – Ergonomic changes to reduce strain

Minimally Invasive Procedures

✔ Epidural Steroid Injections – Reduces inflammation and nerve pain
✔ Facet Joint Injections – Targets small spinal joints to relieve pain
✔ Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – Disrupts pain signals from nerves
✔ Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) – Modulates nerve activity for long-term relief

When to Seek Medical Help

If thoracic pain persists for weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by radiating pain, weakness, or difficulty breathing, consult a pain specialist for an evaluation.

Find Relief from Thoracic Pain Today

Don’t let mid-back pain limit your life. Explore advanced treatments and regain comfort. Schedule a consultation today!