Could my back pain be from poor posture?

Back-Pain-from-Poor-Posture---Physical-Therapy-1
Share

A few days ago I was doing computer work on my bed with no back support and now my upper spine is popping and feeling odd. For example, if I raise both shoulders, a sharp sensation happens that doesn’t quite hurt, but feels uncomfortable. I am 18 and have never had any back related issues. Am I OK? Could it be from slouching?

Disclaimer: Please note, this reply is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with a medical condition.

Things to Know

  • Frequently, upper back pain can be related to slouching posture, especially if sustained for long periods of time.
  • Popping sensations in the spine can be caused by stiff joints as a result of sustained postures.
  • Exercises to improve posture may help alleviate the symptoms described.

Without a formal physical therapy examination, we’re limited in our ability to give you specific information regarding your upper back. However, based on your inquiry, there are several general principles that we can discuss.

Upper back pain can be caused by many things, such as surrounding musculature, the spine, the joints of the spine themselves, nerves, connective tissue, among others. 

Popping sensations in the spine can be caused by stiff joints as a result of sustained postures; however, this is difficult to determine without a formal evaluation. Frequently, upper back pain can also be related to slouching posture, especially if sustained for long periods of time. Taking frequent breaks from computer work and changing positions often may help lessen this pain. Additionally, sitting in chairs with back support where good upright posture can be maintained may also help.

Exercises to improve posture may help alleviate the symptoms described. 

We recommend trying snow angels on a wall. For this exercise, begin standing in an upright position with the back against the wall. The arms are raised out to the side with elbows bent to 90 degrees resting the elbows against the wall. The arms are slowly slid straight up the wall, then lowered back to the starting position. This should be repeated 10-20 times.

If attempting the recommended exercise mentioned previously does not resolve the issue, it may be time to see a physical therapist for a more formal evaluation. A PT will perform a thorough examination, provide a PT diagnosis, and provide education on posture and upper thoracic strengthening. If further investigation is warranted, a PT can refer out to the appropriate medical provider.

To locate a Therapeutic Associates practitioner near you, visit our clinic locator here.

Please note, this reply is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, physical therapist, or other qualified health provider with a medical condition.

Other Q&A You May Be Interested In

It’s not clear that icing beyond the first week after an ankle injury will help with swelling. We recommend movement...
Foot & Ankle
Physical therapists are experts in managing how fast or slow to progress someone based on their individual needs and can...
Rest alone is insufficient for preventing symptoms of tendonitis in the wrist from returning down the road. Full tendon rehabilitation...
pain relief, physical therapy, wrist

Start your journey to pain-free living today.

Our experts are committed to providing effective, efficient, and compassionate care to help you live a pain-free, active life. Our passion is to help every patient reach their goals on their journey to recovery and optimal performance.

Older couple walking outdoors laughing
Daughter on fathers shoulders in open field

How can we help you today?

Ask Our Experts