Treatment for Chronic Upper Back Pain

Chronic upper back pain is not as common as lower back pain. However, it can be just as excruciatingly painful and physically limiting. The most common cause of upper back pain is from muscular tension, According to Spine-Health.com. There are several treatments available for muscle tension including exercise, massage therapy, chiropractic manipulation, acupuncture and pain medication.

Exercise

• Several specific exercises are useful to address upper back pain. Stretching exercises that relax the tension in the upper back muscles can relieve back pain.

Massage Therapy

• Massage therapy can increase circulation, relax muscles and improve range of motion, according to Spine-Health.com.

Chiropractic Manipulation

• Chiropractors make adjustments to the spinal alignment that reduce back pain due to bad posture or compressed nerves.

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system which can reduce pain and induce relaxation, according to Spine-health.com.

Pain Medication

• Pain medication can be beneficial for reducing upper back pain. However pain medication may have addictive qualities or side effects.