Understanding Mid Back and Rib Pain

The mid back, or thoracic spine, is designed for stability and the protection of your vital organs, but it must also allow for enough rotation to support the movement of your neck and lower back. Mid-back pain often develops when the joints where the ribs meet the spine become restricted or when the natural outward curve of the upper back becomes exaggerated. This typically results from prolonged sitting, repetitive reaching, or poor breathing patterns, leading to a sharp or dull aching sensation between the shoulder blades.

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Because the thoracic spine is connected to the rib cage, mechanical issues in this area can sometimes make it feel uncomfortable to take a deep breath or twist the torso. When these vertebrae lose their proper mobility, the surrounding musculature often tightens in a protective "splinting" rhythm, which can lead to persistent knots and postural fatigue.

To address the localized tension often found in the rhomboids and mid-trapezius, we apply manual therapy to release soft tissue restrictions and improve rib expansion. We then integrate specific rehab exercises, such as thoracic extensions and "scapular squeezing" movements, to strengthen the muscles that hold your shoulders back. This comprehensive care helps open up your posture, eases the burden on your mid-back, and allows for more fluid, effortless movement.

Of course, we also apply specific and targeted spinal adjustments to the restricted areas, which restore joint mobility and motion. This comprehensive approach is individualized to each patient and promotes long term relief from pain.