Mid and upper back

BSR in the upper back

Mechanical stress caused by working in a hunched or twisted posture may strain the chest and back areas. Lifting heavy objects or holding something up for a long time may cause problems. Body stress may also occur as a result of a painful spasm of the diaphragm.

Other reasons for body stress in this area may be emotional tension such as shock or anxiety. Other causes may be chemical, such as irritation from eating or drinking something spicy, acidic or very cold. Body stress in the diaphragm muscle may result in indigestion or heartburn, or a feeling of breathlessness.

In addition if there is body stress in the lower back, it may be referred into the muscles of the chest and upper back.

The effects felt can include a mild, nagging ache in the upper back between the shoulder blades, or possibly a persistent itch. The body stress may also manifest as a severe stabbing pain in this area, or in the chest. The pain is worsened by deep breathing.

Body stress in the mid and upper back may have an impact on the nerve supply to the various internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, kidney and bladder, and may interfere with normal function.