Upper Back Pain When Breathing

It can be distressing to have upper back pain while breathing, especially if it feels sharp or if it hinders your ability to take deep breaths. You might be tempted to think there's something wrong that would require your doctor's attention, but this pain is usually a musculoskeletal problem. 

In this article, we'll take a closer look at upper back pain while breathing, possible causes, and ways to relieve it. If the pain doesn't go away soon or if you have other concerning symptoms, it might be time to get back pain therapy in Austin, TX.

Common Causes of Upper Back Pain When Breathing

Muscle spasms or strains, rib misalignment, and postural issues are frequent culprits of upper back discomfort when breathing. While these factors are the most likely to be responsible, certain medical conditions—including pneumonia and pleurisy—can also cause upper back pain that is most noticeable when taking a deep breath. 

If you feel discomfort while inhaling and exhaling, it's advisable to see a physiotherapist to rule out any serious underlying condition. Here are the most common causes of upper back pain while breathing.

Muscle Strain

When muscles are stressed, the inflammation can make the pain worse when you breathe deeply. Lifting things that are too heavy, repetitive motions and intense exercises without warm-up before or cool-down after can cause muscle strain.

Poor Posture

There are several ways people are accustomed to slouching, and they don't even realize it. The first is very common: Sitting at a desk and working on a computer with rounded shoulders and stooped posture. The second is somewhat related: Using a phone or another screen with a forward-leaning, almost crumpled-up in-the-lap stance. The third is the one we do mostly when we are unconscious: Sleeping in positions that throw our muscles out of balance. 

Rib Dysfunction

Rib dysfunction may result from several potential causes. It may result from impact or trauma to the ribcage, poor lifting techniques, or sudden, twisting, or bending motions. When a rib moves out of place, it can cause breathing discomfort as the rib pushes against tissues. It may also push against nerves that travel through the ribcage from front to back. 

Costochondritis

Costochondritis is associated with inflammation of the cartilaginous connection of the ribs and breastbone (sternum). This condition manifests itself in the form of symptoms, which includes tenderness in the chest or upper back, and sharp pain that increases with movement and makes deep breaths tricky. 

Lung-Related Conditions

Pleurisy is the inflammation of the pleura (the coating of the lungs), which can lead to sharp pain in the upper back and chest, especially when taking deep breaths. Other conditions related to the lungs that could lead to upper back pain include pneumonia and pulmonary embolism.

How to Relieve Upper Back Pain When Breathing

If you're suffering from upper back pain when breathing, don't despair. There are a number of ways to get relief, particularly if the pain is tied to muscle strain or posture. Here are some effective techniques:

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Including stretching and strengthening exercises in your routine can relieve tension in the upper back muscles, especially around the ribs. The stretches improve flexibility, and the strengthening exercises toughen up the muscles that support the upper back, improving overall posture. 

Exercises like thoracic extensions, cat-cow stretch, and shoulder blade squeezes can help relieve tension in your upper back.

Correct Your Posture

One of the best ways to keep upper back pain at bay—and the most effective way to correct it if you have it—is to address your posture. Bad posture can cause strain and tension throughout your body. Posture correction may help avoid or fix upper back pain by addressing ergonomics, the way you hold your body in various positions, and the way you move.

Relaxation and Deep Breathing

The muscles in your upper back can become tense from stress. When we are under pressure, we tend to breathe more shallowly, which doesn't send as much oxygen to our muscles and organs. 

The breathing exercise below will not only help your back relax; it will also enhance your overall sense of well-being. 

• Find a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down. 
• Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. 
• Inhale through your nose, allowing your abdomen to push your hand out. 
• Exhale through your mouth as if you are softly blowing. 

Your back and abdomen are now sending messages to your brain to help you relax.

When Should You See A Doctor?

While the majority of upper back pain that occurs during breathing can be treated effectively at home, certain signs and symptoms necessitate seeking medical attention. You should seek medical help if: 

• Your upper back pain is severe or doesn't go away with home treatment.
• It feels like your upper back is strained when you breathe.
• The pain extends from your upper back down into your arms or legs.
• You are experiencing any numbness, tingling, or weakness.

physical therapy in Austin involves assessing your symptoms and creating a tailored treatment plan. Your therapist will also work with you as you progress in your treatment to make necessary adjustments. 

Conclusion

To sum it up, there are many possible reasons why someone might experience upper back pain when they breathe. Those range from obvious muscle-related issues (like strains and tears) to poor posture and even diseases that affect the ribs.

The good news is that you can usually make these pains go away by exercising and improving your posture. If you're doing these and still hurting, though, it's time to see a physiotherapist for an assessment.

If your pain or injury is keeping you from living the life you desire, call/text 512-693-8849 now or if you'd prefer we reach out to you, fill out the brief form in the sidebar (or below if you're on mobile).