Middle right back pain is a common complaint that can have a multitude of causes. The majority of pain in this area of the back is due to strained muscles, a condition caused when the muscles are overused and become stretched or torn. Other possible causes can include gallbladder issues, intestinal gas, and pinched nerves. While treatment largely depends on the source of the pain, some possible treatment options include heat or ice therapy, the use of medications, and gentle stretching exercises.
Muscle strains resulting in middle right back pain can generally be treated with relatively conservative means at home. It is important to first obtain an accurate diagnosis from a medical professional in order to rule out more serious medical conditions. Heat or ice therapy can be helpful, with some patients preferring heat and others preferring ice. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as well, and many healthcare providers recommend gentle stretching exercises once the pain begins to lessen.
Gallbladder issues such as gallstones or an inflamed gallbladder may cause middle right back pain in some patients. This pain may also spread upward into the right shoulder. This condition can quickly develop into an emergency situation. Therefore, if these symptoms are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain, the patient should visit the local emergency room right away.
If the pain tends to come and go, the problem may be intestinal gas. There are several over-the-counter medications that can be used to help relieve the pain caused by gas. If the problem is persistent or does not respond to treatment, a medical professional should be consulted to make sure there is not a more serious intestinal problem present.
When middle right back pain is accompanied by difficulty maintaining correct posture, a slipped disc could be the cause. A slipped disc is also referred to as a herniated disc and occurs when the cushioned area between the discs of the spine move into an abnormal position. This condition can sometimes be treated with medications, physical therapy, and massage therapy. However, in more severe cases surgery may become necessary.
Pinched nerves, another potential cause of middle right back pain, occur when there is an abnormal amount of pressure placed on one of nerves. This can occur due to slipped discs or muscle strains and can lead to what is often referred to as a pins and needles sensation. Physical therapy and medications are sometimes used to treat pinched nerves. However, surgical intervention to treat the root cause is often necessary.
