Back Pain

Back Pain Causes...? How to relieve the pain?

For about a week now, I've been having back pain. When I sit still, I can't feel it at all, but when I turn or bend over in a certain way (or when I take a deep breath) it hurts. It's on the right side of my back, underneath my shoulder blade but above where the ribs start in the back. I originally thought it was from sleeping in an uncomfortable position, but I've tried sleeping several different ways and it hasn't helped. It's not a horrible pain, just more of a constant ache. I feel like it's something to do with my muscles but don't know how to tell. It's becoming very frustrating and worrisome. Lastly, I'm only 21 so it isn't from age or anything. I don't have any insurance at the moment and won't have it until January 1st. Any ideas of what caused it? And more importantly, any ideas of how to relieve it? Thank you!

Public Comments

1. Kali,just take a couple of pain relievers and if you have a heating pad then apply it over a towel to where your shoulder is bothering you,it sounds as if you have a pulled muscle in your back,these things will help in loosening it,I hope this is of some help,I don't think that you have anything to be concerned about.
2. Try doing some yoga this is good for building up your muscles in your back, exercise is good for you and try to keep your weight down.
3. It sounds as though you've irritated both a muscle and a joint. The vertebrae in your upper back are shaped in a way that let you bend from side to side and limit your movement during bending and rotating. From what you describe you are having irritation in the T-7 to T10 area ( there are 12 thoracic vertebrae) and possibly a subluxated rib ( which would account for the breathing pain). I can not comment ( obviously) on your physical condition, posture or work habits but they all may be contributing to your pain. Although you are young ( 21) you are not a kid so adult pains and aches will present themselves. The worst thing you can do is to get in the habit of popping pain pills and masking problems. This leads to worsening of conditions not improvements. If the pain persists in January you should consult a Chiropractor and ask for an evaluation. They should be able to determine quickly ( even by listening to your complaints and feeling your back) if your condition is something that is just a one time problem or the result of something that has been brewing for some time.
4. I'm also a chiropractor and I agree with everything that was said above. Try to see a chiropractor prior to going to your regular doctor. Chiropractors specialize in this type of condition. I really wish you the best.