Mid-Back Pain (Thoracic Spine)

Mid-back pain can be sneaky. It may show up as tightness between your shoulder blades, a dull ache that spreads across your ribs, or stiffness that makes it hard to take a deep breath. While less talked about than low back or neck pain, discomfort in the thoracic spine can cause significant pain and have a major impact on your posture, energy, and daily comfort.

What Causes Mid Back Pain?

The mid-back, or thoracic spine, is where your ribs attach to your spine. It’s designed for stability, but when motion is restricted or posture suffers, pain and tension can follow. Common causes include:

• Poor posture, especially from slouching at a desk or over a phone
• Rib joint dysfunction, often mistaken for muscular pain
• Stress and shallow breathing, which tighten muscles and reduce oxygen flow
• Muscle strain from overuse or improper lifting
• Spinal immobility from repetitive movement or past injury
• Scoliosis or abnormal spinal curvature

How Chiropractic Care Can Help You Feel Better

Chiropractic treatment addresses both the structural and muscular components of mid back pain. Care may include:

• Targeted spinal adjustments to restore motion to the thoracic vertebrae
• Rib mobilisation to improve breathing and reduce stiffness
• Soft tissue therapy to release trigger points and muscle knots
• Corrective exercises to strengthen your upper back and improve posture

We don’t just treat pain—we help you move with freedom, breathe easier, and feel stronger.

Experience a Full-Body Shift

Mid back discomfort often affects the way you stand, walk, and breathe. By restoring balance to your thoracic spine, you may notice improvements throughout your entire body—including better energy, sleep, and posture.

FAQs: Mid Back Pain

Q: Why does my mid back hurt when I sit at my desk or drive?
A: Sitting for long periods—especially with rounded shoulders—puts stress on the mid-back and rib joints. Chiropractic care helps relieve that pressure and retrain your posture.

Q: Can chiropractic help if my pain is from stress or tension?
A: Yes. Stress often shows up in the body as muscle tightness, especially in the upper back and shoulders. Gentle adjustments and soft tissue work can help release that tension and calm your nervous system.

Q: How is mid-back pain treated differently than low back or neck pain?
A: The thoracic spine is more stable and less mobile than the neck or low back. Treatment focuses on restoring flexibility, easing rib joint restrictions, and correcting posture—often with great results.

If you are suffering with any of these conditions, please call your nearest Chiropractic & Allied Health Clinic today to make your initial appointment, or click here to Book Online.