Mid Back Pain Chiropractic Care
in San Diego

Mid back pain, also referred to as thoracic spine pain, can feel very different depending on the underlying cause. Some people experience a dull ache or stiffness, while others notice sharp pain with certain movements or even when taking a deep breath.

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Our San Diego chiropractic office provides movement-focused care for mid back pain by addressing joint restriction, muscle tension, and mechanical stress that commonly contribute to thoracic discomfort.

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Common Causes of Mid Back Pain

The mid back (thoracic spine) plays a key role in posture, breathing mechanics, and upper body movement. Pain in this region often develops when normal movement becomes restricted or surrounding tissues are overloaded.

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Below are some of the most common mechanical contributors to mid back pain and how they typically feel.

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Rib and Thoracic Joint-Related Pain

Pain involving the joints where the ribs meet the spine is a common cause of sharp mid back discomfort.

Common sensations include:

• Sharp or stabbing pain in the mid back

• Pain that worsens when taking a deep breath

• Discomfort with twisting or reaching

• Pain felt along one side of the spine or around the rib cage

 

Many patients describe this as sharp pain in the mid back when breathing in, coughing, or sneezing. Restricted rib or thoracic joint movement can place extra stress on surrounding tissues during normal breathing and motion.

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Muscle Strain or Muscle Tension

Muscle-related mid back pain often develops from overuse, poor posture, or sudden strain.

Common sensations include:

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• Dull aching or soreness in the mid back

• Tightness or stiffness between the shoulder blades

• Pain that feels worse after activity or prolonged sitting

• Tender or sensitive muscles to touch

 

Muscular pain may feel more diffuse and is often influenced by posture, desk work, or repetitive movement.

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Posture-Related Mid Back Pain

Prolonged sitting, desk work, and forward-rounded posture place increased demand on the thoracic spine.

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Common sensations include:

• Stiffness in the mid back

• Discomfort between the shoulder blades

• Pain that improves with movement or stretching

• Tightness that builds throughout the day

 

Posture-related mid back pain often develops gradually and may be associated with neck or shoulder tension as well.

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For more information, visit our Posture page.

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Movement Restriction in the Thoracic Spine

Limited motion in the thoracic spine can cause pain even without a clear injury.

 

Common sensations include:

• Feeling “stuck” or restricted in the mid back

• Discomfort with rotation or extension

• Pain when reaching overhead or twisting

• Stiffness after rest or inactivity

 

Restricted thoracic movement can also affect how the neck, shoulders, and low back function during daily activity.

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Symptoms Commonly Associated With Mid Back Pain

Mid back pain may present as:

• Sharp or localized pain

• Aching or stiffness

• Pain with deep breathing

• Discomfort during twisting or reaching

• Muscle tightness between the shoulder blades

• Reduced mobility or flexibility

 

Because mid back pain can have different contributing factors, a thorough evaluation helps determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate.

 

How Chiropractic Care Helps Mid Back Pain

Chiropractic care for mid back pain focuses on restoring movement and reducing mechanical stress rather than masking symptoms.

 

Improving Thoracic and Rib Mobility

Restricted joints in the thoracic spine or rib cage can increase strain during breathing and movement. Chiropractic adjustments help restore normal motion and reduce stress on surrounding tissues.

 

Reducing Muscle Tension

Manual therapy techniques help relieve muscle tightness that often develops in response to restricted movement or poor posture.

 

Supporting Better Posture and Movement

Care is tailored to how your body moves, helping support improved posture, breathing mechanics, and overall spinal function.

 

What to Expect During Chiropractic Care for Mid Back Pain

Evaluation and Assessment

Your visit includes an assessment of thoracic spine mobility, rib motion, posture, and movement patterns related to your symptoms.

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Personalized Chiropractic Care

Based on your findings, care may include chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, and supportive techniques designed to reduce mechanical stress.

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Progress Monitoring

Your response to care is monitored over time, with adjustments made based on symptom changes and functional improvement.

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Mid Back Pain Chiropractor Near La Jolla and UTC

Dr. Loewenstein is conveniently located in San Diego, serving patients from La Jolla, UTC (University City), Sorrento Valley, and surrounding areas.

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Patients searching for a mid back pain chiropractor in San Diego choose Dr. Loewenstein for an individualized, movement-focused approach to care.

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Insurance and Mid Back Pain Chiropractic Care

We work with many patients who use insurance for chiropractic care, including Aetna, VA Community Care Network, Anthem Blue Cross plans, and others. Coverage varies by policy, and our office can help verify benefits prior to your visit.

 

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re experiencing mid back pain or sharp pain in the mid back when breathing in and are looking for chiropractic care in San Diego, we’re currently accepting new patients.

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You can schedule your appointment online or contact the office to get started.