Upper Back Pain Physiotherapy
Upper back pain is commonly felt between the shoulder blades or below the neck and may become more noticeable after prolonged sitting, computer work, looking down or staying in the same position for a long time. Some people may also notice tightness, aching or stiffness around the upper back together with neck or shoulder discomfort.
If symptoms are mainly focused around the neck and are aggravated by turning the head, looking down or maintaining certain neck positions, you may also refer to [Neck Pain Physiotherapy].
Common symptoms
- Pain, aching or tightness between the shoulder blades or around the upper back
- Symptoms becoming more noticeable after prolonged sitting or computer work
- Discomfort during turning, upper-back movement or certain upper-limb activities
- A sense of stiffness around the upper back
- Neck or shoulder tightness occurring at the same time in some cases
How physiotherapy assesses
Physiotherapy usually begins by looking at where the discomfort is felt, when it occurs, and how sitting, work, turning or other everyday activities affect the symptoms. Where appropriate, upper-back and thoracic movement, shoulder-blade movement, neck and shoulder function, strength and movement control may also be assessed to identify factors associated with the symptoms and activity limitations. Workstation setup, sitting habits and daily activity demands may also be considered where relevant.
If upper-back pain is not clearly influenced by movement or activity, or is accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, significant trauma or other unusual symptoms, medical assessment should be sought first.
How physiotherapy may help
Physiotherapy may include activity modification, upper-back and thoracic mobility exercises, shoulder-blade and upper-limb strengthening, movement-control training, and suitable advice for work and daily activity according to the assessment findings. Rehabilitation is adjusted according to symptom response and individual activity needs.
Related Conditions
Neck Pain
Shoulder Pain
Low Back Pain
Not sure whether your condition falls into this category?
You may first arrange a physiotherapy assessment to understand the more suitable management approach according to your symptoms, activity needs, and rehabilitation goals.