The upper and mid-back are collectively known as the Thoracic Spine. It spans the area from the base of the neck down to just above where the back starts to arch or hollow.
What is it made up of?
The Thoracic Spine consists of 12 vertebrae (spinal bones) stacked on top of each other and separated by intervertebral discs. These discs absorb shock and provide cushioning between the vertebrae. Each of the 12 vertebrae have attachments to the ribs, of which there are also 12! Many muscles (big and small!) span this area, alongside some nerve fibers too.
What shape is it?
The Thoracic Spine is naturally more rounded (kyphotic) compared to the neck and lower back, which tend to hollow or arch.
*[To visualize it: Think of your spine running from the top of your neck down to your tailbone as being a slight ‘S’ shape.]*
What does the Thoracic Spine do?
- Protects the spinal cord
- Acts as an anchor for the rib cage
- Allows us to move our trunk in different ways
What movements does the Thoracic Spine do?
The Thoracic Spine typically offers more stability than it does mobility, compared to the neck and lower back. It does move in all different directions:
- Bending forwards and backwards
- Leaning to the side
- But most of all: TWISTING movements.
Did you know: The action of lifting your arm overhead requires a certain amount of movement to happen in the upper back. Without this we would be restricted in how high we can lift the arm!
What causes pain in this area?
Most commonly pain arises due to muscle or joint issues. It is extremely rare that a disc causes pain in this area.
Specific causes of pain include:
- Osteoporosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Shingles
- Trauma (e.g. a fall)
- Scoliosis
- Excessive rounding or kyphosis
- Other medical causes
Is it related to neck or low back pain?
It can be, yes. Commonly in clinical practice we see the Thoracic Spine contributing to neck or low back pain. Usually this presents as stiffness or a lack of movement in the Thoracic Spine which places increased demands on the neck and low back. By keeping the upper and mid-back as mobile as we can, helps to reduce the likelihood of this. By also keeping the muscles in the area strong you can reduce excessive curvature of the spine and help prevent shoulder, back and neck issues.
JennyPhysioPilates members click here to see videos on how to keep your upper & mid-back mobile.
