Middle back pain is a very common complaint among people of all ages, genders, and ethnicity. This type of pain may interrupt our daily activities, movements, and sleep patterns.

There are different causes of middle back pain, but one of the most common causes is the spine. The spine is one of the most important structures of the human body as it provides support to the body, protects the spinal cord, and allows movements. Here are some possible spinal causes of middle back pain.

Intervertebral Disc Herniation

Intervertebral disc herniation happens when the soft gel-like substance inside the spinal disc protrudes outside of the disc. This can lead to nerve root compression that causes pain.

When this happens in the middle back, it can cause sudden onset of localized pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Some people may also experience tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. Intervertebral disc herniation can happen due to wear and tear, improper lifting, or injury.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that may cause middle back pain. The curvature of the spine can cause muscle strains and tension in the middle back area. Scoliosis is more common in adolescent girls, but it can happen to anyone.

Scoliosis can lead to uneven shoulders, hips, or ribs, and can result in a visible hump on the back. The degree of the curvature determines the severity of the pain.

Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a condition that causes an excessive curvature of the spine, creating a rounded or humpback appearance. Kyphosis is most common in older adults and can cause middle back pain.

This condition can be caused by poor posture, arthritis, osteoporosis, or a spinal fracture. When left untreated, kyphosis can cause respiratory problems, difficulty moving, and increased risk of falls.

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition that occurs when one vertebra in the spine slips forward over the vertebra below it. This can result in middle back pain or stiffness.

Spondylolisthesis can happen after a fracture or due to degenerative changes in the spine. People with spondylolisthesis may feel numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. The severity of the pain depends on the degree of slippage.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition that causes the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerves and cause pain. Spinal stenosis can develop in the middle back, but it is more common in the lower back and neck.

In addition to middle back pain, spinal stenosis can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms or legs. This condition can be caused by degenerative changes, herniated discs, or trauma.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common condition in older people in which the cartilage that cushions the joints wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation. When osteoarthritis happens in the spine, it can cause middle back pain.

The pain is usually worse when sitting or standing for long periods and may be accompanied by a cracking or popping sound. Osteoarthritis can be managed with lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medications.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the synovial lining of the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the spine.

When spinal joints are affected, it can cause middle back pain, loss of mobility, and fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment are important in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Compression Fractures

Compression fractures happen when the bones in the spine collapse, causing pain and reduced mobility. This can be caused by trauma, osteoporosis, or other conditions that weaken the bones.

Compression fractures can happen in any part of the spine, including the middle back. Pain from compression fractures can last for several months and can be acute or chronic.

Spinal Tumors

Spinal tumors are abnormal growths or masses of tissue in the spine that can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the middle back area. Spinal tumors can be benign or malignant and can originate from the spinal cord or surrounding tissues.

Depending on the size and location of the tumor, it can cause pressure on the spinal cord, nerve roots, or other organs. Treatment of spinal tumors depends on the type and stage of the tumor.

Sacroiliitis

Sacroiliitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, which connects the pelvis to the base of the spine. Sacroiliitis can cause middle back pain, buttock pain, and stiffness.

This condition can be caused by infection, injury, or degenerative changes in the joint. Sacroiliitis can be managed with physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.