Mid-back pain often doesn’t start with a single injury. Many people who visit a chiropractor in Olathe describe a gradual onset—stiffness between the shoulder blades, discomfort when twisting, or sharp pain with deep breaths or reaching forward. While this blog shares one common pattern we see, it’s important to understand that broader causes and explanations live on our condition pages for neck pain, migraines and headaches, upper back pain, and low back pain, which provide deeper condition-level context.
Mid-back discomfort often develops when spinal joints and surrounding tissues are exposed to repeated mechanical stress. Over time, limited movement, prolonged posture, and uneven loading can cause joints to stiffen and muscles to become overworked, leading to localized pain or tightness.
In many cases, this problem is driven by how the thoracic spine handles load throughout the day. Sitting with arms extended, reaching forward repeatedly, or maintaining a rounded posture can shift stress into the joints and soft tissues between the shoulder blades. When those areas stop moving well, nearby muscles often tighten to compensate, and irritation can build with normal daily activity.
Patients commonly notice patterns such as stiffness when first getting up, discomfort when taking a deep breath, pain between the shoulder blades after computer work, soreness when twisting, aching after long drives, sharp pain when reaching overhead, tightness that worsens throughout the day, relief when changing positions, or tenderness when pressure is applied to the mid-back. These symptoms are descriptive experiences rather than diagnoses, but they help us understand how the spine is responding to load.
In the office, we frequently see movement-based patterns associated with mid-back pain. Some people feel worse with prolonged sitting but better once they move around. Others notice discomfort with rotation or extension, especially after repetitive tasks. It’s also common for mid-back stiffness to influence nearby areas, contributing to neck tension or even lower back compensation depending on posture and daily habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my mid-back hurt without a specific injury?
Repetitive strain, posture, and reduced joint motion can gradually overload the mid-back even without a single incident.
Can sitting at a desk really cause mid-back pain?
Yes. Extended sitting with arms forward can place continuous stress on the thoracic spine and surrounding muscles.
Why does it hurt more when I twist or take a deep breath?
Mid-back joints and ribs move with breathing and rotation, so stiffness or irritation can become more noticeable during those motions.
Is mid-back pain related to neck or low back problems?
Restricted motion in one spinal region often affects how other areas move and compensate, which is why whole-spine mechanics matter.
How long does this type of pain usually last?
Duration varies. Some people notice improvement with movement changes, while others seek care when symptoms persist or interfere with daily life.
If you’re dealing with ongoing mid-back discomfort that seems tied to posture, repetitive work, or daily activity, we can help. Call our Olathe chiropractic office at 913-735-6351, or click “Schedule Your Visit” to get started.
Dr. Ike Woodroof
Contact Me
