Physiotherapy in Birmingham
Thoracic and upper back pain physiotherapy in Birmingham City Centre
Is there a tight, aching band between your shoulder blades by the end of every working day? Upper back (thoracic) pain is common in desk workers and lifters. It often feels like stiffness, a deep ache, or a catch when you turn or take a deep breath.
What's usually behind it
- Stiff mid-back joints and ribs after long spells of sitting
- Overworked muscles around the shoulder blades and neck
- An upper back that is not strong enough for heavy pressing, laptop or phone hours
- Pain that is really coming from the neck or shoulder, which the assessment picks up
How Joel diagnoses it and treats it
Your first appointment is a 60-minute one-to-one initial assessment for £70. It covers:
- Movement analysis of your spine, ribs, shoulder blades and breathing, to find what is actually driving the pain
- Hands-on joint and soft-tissue treatment to ease stiffness on the day
- Acupuncture or cupping alongside it, where they suit you
- Gym-based loading, such as rows, pulldowns and carries, to build the upper back endurance that keeps the pain away
You'll leave knowing what's going on, what you can do about it and what happens next. Evening and weekend appointments are available at 3 Blucher Street, Birmingham City Centre. Receipts are provided for claiming back through work where your employer allows.
If it keeps coming back at your desk
If your back pain has lasted three months or more and is worse after a day at a desk, the Executive Back Restoration Programme may be worth a look. Most people start with the £70 assessment, and Joel will tell you honestly which route fits.
When to get help urgently
Seek urgent medical help (A&E or 999) if you have chest pain, breathlessness, pain spreading into the jaw or left arm, or upper back pain after a significant fall or accident. See your GP if you also have unexplained weight loss, a fever, or constant pain that is worse at night.
Common questions
Is my upper back pain just posture?
Rarely on its own. Long static positions play a part, but strength, movement and workload matter too. The assessment looks at all of them.
Can desk work cause upper back pain?
Yes, it is one of the most common triggers. Regular movement breaks and building upper back strength usually help more than hunting for a perfect sitting position.
How long will it take to settle?
It varies with how long you have had it. Many people feel easier within a few sessions, and your assessment will give you a realistic view of your own case.
Related
Get your upper back pain assessed
Get an exact diagnosis in one thorough session, with hands-on treatment on the day and a plan you can follow.