To cure upper-back pain, look at its possible causes

Q. There are so many articles written about lower-back pain, but I have yet to read anything on upper-back pain. This has been a problem for me for the last couple of years. I've tried a chiropractor, acupuncture and physical therapy.

The pain can be excruciating at times, especially after I've been standing at the kitchen sink, ironing or wrapping gifts. The pain generates across my upper back between my shoulder blades. I'm constantly using a heating pad, which helps for a short while.

Do you have any answers?

A.You are correct in that upper back pain is not as common as pain in the lower back. There are numerous causes for the condition, including poor posture, overuse of muscles, osteoporosis, a ruptured disc and heart disease.

To begin, review your situation. Are you using good posture while standing at the kitchen sink or while ironing, or do you slouch? Could the problem be caused by weakened muscles and joint strain? If this is the case, standing straight and doing some upper-body exercise might alleviate the problem. One minute of self-massage each morning will help relieve muscle pain. For example, stretch your right hand over your left shoulder, reaching as far as possible. Massage the area with your fingers. Then, repeat the process with your left hand over your right shoulder.

And try taking over-the-counter ibuprofen for pain relief.

Do you have a job sitting at a desk all day? Answer a telephone that you cradle against your shoulder? Work on a computer? These activities can cause muscle tightness and pain. Again, sit straight and hold the phone with your hand rather than exhibit poor posture, which can lead to difficulties.

If you sustained an injury through a car accident, fall or other trauma, this might explain your problem. Whiplash can strain muscles in the upper back and can injure your neck, too.

Speak with your doctor about the correct steps for getting outside help, such as with a physical therapist. Try to identify the cause of your upper back pain. If self-help doesn't relieve the pain, make an appointment with your doctor.

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