Struggling with Back Pain: Seeking Advice
I'm a 30-year-old woman engaged in community care and administrative duties. Recently, I’ve been experiencing an unexpected stiff, dull pain in my upper back and thoracic area. This discomfort intensifies, particularly when I take a deep breath, radiating to my ribcage, and the pain manifests as a sharp sensation on my right side when it flares up. I’ve tried a variety of remedies to find relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, have provided little to no help. Additionally, I've resorted to muscle relaxants like orphenadrine and self-care methods including Epsom salt baths, hot compresses, stretching exercises, massages, deep heating pads, ice packs, and Voltaren. My efforts seem futile. In an attempt to address the persistent pain, I visited my doctor seeking a more effective solution. Unfortunately, the consultation felt unproductive; the physician simply suggested physical therapy and prescribed more muscle relaxants without offering significant assistance. I ended up spending $90 for a brief appointment where I was ushered out after just five minutes. This situation has been dragging on for quite a while, and I’m growing increasingly concerned about whether I will ever find relief. Is it possible that I’ve injured a specific muscle? What could be the underlying cause of this pain?
Answers (1)
8/9/2025, 11:20:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you're dealing with persistent upper back pain that has not improved despite trying several remedies and seeking professional help. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you feel like your concerns aren't being fully addressed. It’s important to explore both the possible causes of your pain and effective self-care strategies that you can take to help manage it.
Possible Causes
The pain you're describing in your upper back and thoracic area could result from various factors, including:
- Muscle strain or tension: This might happen due to overuse or poor posture, especially if you are engaged in administrative duties that require prolonged sitting.
- Referred pain: Sometimes, issues with nearby structures (like the rib cage or even internal organs) can cause pain in the back.
- Postural problems: Spending long hours in front of a computer can lead to muscle imbalances.
- Underlying conditions: Though less common, certain conditions (like costochondritis) may cause similar symptoms.
Next Steps
Here are some prioritized, actionable steps you can take right now to potentially alleviate your pain:
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Postural Awareness: Focus on maintaining good posture throughout the day. Ensure your workspace is ergonomically arranged. A chair that supports your lower back and keeping your monitor at eye level can help.
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Gentle Movement: While you may have already tried stretching, incorporating gentle mobility exercises can be beneficial. A routine that includes stretches for the thoracic spine and strengthening exercises for weak muscles can improve your condition.
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Heat Therapy: Continue using heat pads. Applying heat before stretching can help loosen tight muscles. Consider trying a warm compress for 15-20 minutes before engaging in stretches.
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Mindfulness and Relaxation: Stress can contribute to muscle tension. Practices such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation may help relax your muscles and alleviate pain.
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Keep a Pain Journal: Document when the pain occurs, what activities you were doing, and any other symptoms. This can help identify triggers and patterns to discuss with future healthcare providers if needed.
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Consider Alternative Therapies: If physical therapy wasn't satisfactory, you might explore acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy from certified professionals skilled in treating persistent back pain.
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Follow Up: If the pain continues or worsens, consider seeking a second opinion from another healthcare professional who may provide a different perspective or thorough examination to rule out any serious conditions.
Reassurance
It’s understandable to feel disheartened when experiencing ongoing pain, but remember that many people with back pain find effective management strategies. The key is persistence and being open to trying new approaches while monitoring your condition. You're taking a proactive step by seeking advice, and that’s an essential part of your recovery journey. Please let me know if you need any more specific tips or explanations!
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