Symptoms of Upper Back Pain

Kamiah A. Walker
Medical Writer
SpineUniverse
Wheaton, IL

Many cases of upper back pain are caused by muscle or soft tissue problems, such as sprain, strain, or tension. Many symptoms, then, relate to the muscles:

stiffness
spasm
pain
tightness
tenderness when the injured area is touched

Sometimes, you can also feel upper back pain when you take a deep breath because the vertebrae (the spinal bones) in your thoracic spine are connected to the ribs. Sneezing or coughing may also be painful.

With upper back pain (or mid-back pain), you may also have pain in your shoulders and neck (cervical spine). That's because all your muscles are connected, so if it's a muscle problem causing your upper back pain, the other muscles in your shoulders and neck can be affected.

Last Updated: 01/05/2009

Continue Reading: Causes of Upper Back Pain

What is this?

Editorial Board Comments on SpineUniverse

SpineUniverse is committed to ensuring that all information on its site is trustworthy and of the highest quality. To maintain the site's quality, SpineUniverse relies on its exceptional Editorial Board. The Editorial Board is a "Who's Who" of more than 60 leading spine specialists, including surgeons, pain management specialists, chiropractors, nurses, physical therapists and more.