Middle Back Pain Treatment from Trusted Pain Doctors in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our experienced pain doctors provide comprehensive care for patients struggling with thoracic spine pain. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, or Mesa, our local pain clinics offer personalized, non-surgical and interventional treatments designed to improve quality of life and restore function. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe discomfort in the middle of your back, our pain specialists can help identify the cause and recommend effective solutions.

What Is Middle Back Pain?

Middle back pain typically refers to discomfort in the thoracic spine—the middle 12 vertebrae between the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions. These vertebrae support the rib cage and protect vital organs like the heart and lungs. As a result, pain in this area may stem from muscles, ligaments, spinal discs, or bones and can vary from mild to severe.

In many cases, thoracic spine pain is short-lived and not associated with a serious health issue. However, when pain persists or worsens, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires evaluation by a pain doctor at a trusted pain clinic.

Common Symptoms of Thoracic Spine Pain

Symptoms of middle back pain can vary based on the cause, but often include:

• A dull or sharp ache in the mid-back

• Pain that worsens with deep breathing or movement

• Stiffness or reduced mobility in the thoracic spine

• Burning, tingling, or numbness

• Muscle spasms at rest or during activity

• Pain radiating toward the rib cage or chest

• A throbbing or aching sensation

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visiting a pain specialist in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, or Mesa can help you begin the path to relief.

Causes of Middle Back Pain

Middle back pain can result from various physical conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Muscle strain or overuse

• Poor posture or prolonged sitting

• Sedentary lifestyle habits

• Carrying heavy bags or backpacks

• Vertebral compression fractures

• Degenerative disc disease

• Osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis

• Scoliosis or kyphosis

• Osteoporosis

• Nerve compression or inflammation

• Myofascial pain syndrome

• Spinal trauma or injury

• Ankylosing spondylitis

Understanding the root cause of your pain allows your pain doctor to build a focused and effective treatment plan.

Risk Factors for Thoracic Spine Pain

Several risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing middle back pain. These include:

• Smoking or tobacco use

• Being a higher-weight person

• Aging and natural spinal degeneration

• Long hours of sitting or standing

• Pre-existing spinal abnormalities

• Improper body mechanics during lifting or movement

Over time, these factors may place excessive strain on the thoracic spine. Therefore, addressing them early can play a key role in prevention and recovery.

Diagnostic Testing for Thoracic Back Pain

If your pain continues for more than a few weeks or follows an injury, diagnostic testing may be necessary. Your pain doctor will begin with a physical exam and a review of your medical and family history. In some cases, additional tests may be ordered, such as:

• X-rays

• MRI

• CT scans

• Bone density scans

• Nerve conduction studies

• Nuclear bone scans

These tools help pinpoint the source of pain and guide the next steps for treatment at one of our pain clinics in Arizona.

Middle Back Pain Treatment Options

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we offer customized treatment plans based on the severity and cause of your pain. Our pain clinics in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa provide a variety of conservative and interventional options:

• Physical therapy to improve strength and mobility

• Functional mobility exercises and guided yoga

• Ice or heat application for inflammation and stiffness

• Chiropractic care or massage therapy for muscle relief

• Acupuncture for pain signal modulation

If needed, medical or procedural interventions may be used, including:

• Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs

• Prescription muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, or opioids (when appropriate)

• Corticosteroid injections for targeted inflammation

• Minimally invasive procedures such as nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation

• Surgery, including spinal fusion or thoracic discectomy, for severe structural issues

In some cases, weight loss may be recommended as part of a broader treatment approach. Losing weight can reduce pressure on the spine and lead to significant improvements in symptoms.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

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