Upper Back Pain
Understanding the Thoracic Spine: A Biomechanical Perspective
The Biomechanics of the Thoracic Spine
The thoracic spine comprises 12 vertebrae, located between the cervical and lumbar regions. It is distinct in its structure and function, as it connects to the ribcage, providing stability and supporting the upper body. While this region is less mobile than the cervical and lumbar spines, it plays a key role in rotational movements, breathing mechanics, and distributing forces throughout the body.
However, modern lifestyles, characterized by prolonged sitting and forward-focused activities, often lead to excessive thoracic kyphosis (rounding) and stiffness. This postural imbalance restricts movement and contributes to compensatory stress in adjacent regions, such as the cervical spine and shoulders. Left unaddressed, these dysfunctions can become chronic, affecting breathing efficiency and upper body mechanics.
Muscular Imbalances and Upper Crossed Syndrome
One of the most common patterns associated with thoracic spine dysfunction is upper crossed syndrome—a muscular imbalance that arises from forward head posture and rounded shoulders. This condition is characterized by tightness in the pectoralis major and minor, along with the upper trapezius and levator scapulae, paired with weakness in the deep neck flexors, rhomboids, and lower trapezius.
This i mbalance creates a cascading effect:
The tight chest muscles pull the shoulders forward, increasing thoracic kyphosis.
Overactive upper trapezius muscles compensate for the weakened lower trapezius and rhomboids, contributing to shoulder and neck tension.
The weakened deep neck flexors lead to increased reliance on the upper cervical spine, heightening the risk of cervical dysfunction.
Ultimately, these patterns place undue strain on the thoracic spine and surrounding structures, perpetuating pain, stiffness, and postural issues.
Chiropractic Care for the Thoracic Spine
Function-based chiropractic care offers targeted solutions for thoracic spine dysfunction and its related muscular imbalances. Specific adjustments help restore mobility to restricted thoracic segments, improving rotational capacity and alleviating stiffness. This may be especially helpful to those with an excessive kyphosis.
Soft tissue therapies complement these adjustments by addressing the muscular imbalances of upper crossed syndrome. Techniques focused on resolving dysfunction found in the foundational stabilisers, while activating and strengthening the rhomboids and lower trapezius, restore balance and posture.
Preventing Dysfunction through Postural Awareness
Preventing thoracic spine dysfunction begins with understanding and addressing posture. Exercises designed to strengthen the lower trapezius, rhomboids, and deep neck flexors—while simultaneously stretching tight chest and upper trapezius muscles—are vital. Additionally, incorporating thoracic mobility exercises, such as foam rolling and extension drills, can help maintain optimal function.
By integrating chiropractic care with postural awareness and targeted exercises, it is possible to correct existing dysfunctions and prevent their recurrence. This comprehensive, biomechanical approach not only alleviates thoracic pain but also improves overall spinal health and resilience.
Upper Back related Conditions
Upper Crossed Syndrome (as pictured).
Scoliosis
Scheuermann's Disease
Costochondritis (Irritation of the joints between the ribs and the sternum and ribs and the thoracic spine).
Diaphragm spasm.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (creating tingling and pain into the arm and hands.)
Rib Subluxation and fracture.
Vertebral body compression fracture.
After struggling with back pain for years, the progress that I have made after visiting Ed for a few months is crazy. Every session is a full half an hour and worth every penny