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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Why have I been getting middle back pain?

    Related Topics
    Back & Neck Pain Pain Rheumatoid Arthritis
    I do exercise (maybe sometimes using the wrong machines) but this pain is after a week without using machines.

    It occurs after walking for a very short distance or any basic activity.

    Could it be arthritis or should I see a professional?

    I am female and age 50.
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    Dr John Van Der Meulen

    Chiropractor

    A chiropractor of 20 years experience utilising the Network chiropractic technique which is gentle, relaxing and profoundly effective with no cracking/crunching of the spine. Network … View Profile

    Many people by age 50 have some signs of arthritis. However, an aggravation of the arthritis may or may not be the cause of the pain. There are several other causes for back pain. And since your back is aggravated by only mild activity, then I would suggest that you do see a professional.

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    Dr Michael Black

    Chiropractor

    Located in Armadale and Doncaster, Dr Michael Black has an interest in childrens' health and pregnancy. He is passionate aout sharing the benefits of chiropractic … View Profile

    Middle back or shoulder blade level pain is extremely common in the computer age and often has little to do with arthritis. Without knowing your occupation, the number of hours spent at a computer, your seating position and a host of other factors, there is no way of knowing if this is your issue but I would prefer you follow up the more likely and common scenarios than start looking for a ‘medical disorder’. There is a real likelihood that you may have some wear and tear consistent with your age which someone may label arthritis and it may have nothing to do with your symptoms.

    It is worth noting that we see a large number of middle aged people whose posture is being weakened by the number of mobile digital devices being used without adequate advice or exercise to balance it. This is the most common reason for strained muscles and pinched nerves in that spinal region and it is usually compounded by other lifestyle factors.

    Seeing a professional who is trained to assess this condition is what is required. The history and examination will narrow the field and it is very likely to be treatable. I would ask friends or family if they know of a local chiropractor, osteopath, myotherapist or physiotherapist who can assess, advise and treat the issue and recommend an exercise programme for future prevention as well.

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  • Sandra McFaul

    Physiotherapist

    Do you suffer from chronic lower back pain or neck pain? Based in SYDNEY, Sandra is 1 of ONLY 15 Physiotherapists in Australia with ADVANCED … View Profile

    Most 50 year olds have some arthirits but that is not necessarily casuing your pain.

    Most back pains occur because of the way we sit - typically slouched.  Sit up abit taller and put a lumbar roll in the small of your back.  See if that helps. 

    IF that deosn't help, then get an assessment from a MDT physiotherapist - it stands for mechanical diagnosis and thearpy.  You will be shown one key exercise to relieve the pain and taught how to stop it from coming back.

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    Brett Rawlings

    Acupuncturist, Myotherapist

    I’m an Acupuncturist, Credentialed McKenzie Method Therapist and Clinical Myotherapist with 20 years clinical experience treating musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.10 years ago I made the … View Profile

    Always difficult attempting to “diagnose” with limited history.
    Not quite sure how long you have been experiencing this pain, however, if you’re 50 and never had this pain before, it might be a good idea to run it past your GP.

    The fact that it comes on with physical activity does suggest it ‘s mechanical in nature, meaning it should respond relatively well to treatment.
    I suggest you see your GP and then a qualified McKenzie Method therapist.

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  • Dr James Gillard

    Osteopath

    James is passionate about osteopathy, it’s philosophy and works with facilitating the bodies innate drive for health and balance. He enjoys teaching patients about how … View Profile

    Great answers above.

    Tending to agree with mechanical cause and 'computer age' postural fatigue. Again most people in your age group are going through age related changes to your spine which are unlikely to be responsible for your pain. It is important to know some other informtation regarding cardiovascualr health and family history to rule out any nasties.

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