UPPER BACK PAIN

What is upper back pain?
Upper back pain involves discomfort, stiffness, or muscle strain in the thoracic spine and surrounding muscles. It can affect posture, daily activities, and sports performance. At MTE Rehab & Performance, located in Redruth, we assess and manage upper back pain, helping patients from Camborne, Pool, Hayle, Truro, Falmouth, Helston, and Penzance recover safely.

Types of upper back pain

  • Muscle strains – small tears in the upper back muscles from sudden movements or overuse.

  • Postural or movement-related pain – discomfort from prolonged sitting, poor posture, or repetitive movements.

  • Overuse/repetitive strain – gradual pain from repeated lifting, twisting, or sporting activities.

  • Joint-related discomfort – irritation in the thoracic joints from movement patterns or poor posture.

Common causes of upper back pain

  • Muscles – strains can occur during sports like lifting, rowing, or throwing. Everyday examples include carrying shopping bags, reaching overhead, or awkwardly twisting to pick up objects..

  • Posture/movement-related pain – often from prolonged sitting at a desk, poor ergonomics, or slouching. Sports examples include cycling with poor posture or repeated overhead movements.

  • Overuse – irritation from repeated movements in sports or day-to-day activities such as lifting, housework, or gardening.

  • Joints – discomfort from minor thoracic joint issues due to repetitive motion, poor posture, or sudden movement.

How we can help you
At MTE Rehab & Performance in Redruth, we specialise in assessing, managing, and rehabilitating upper back pain for patients from Camborne, Pool, Hayle, Truro, Falmouth, Helston, and Penzance. Our approach includes:

  • Comprehensive assessment to identify the cause and severity of your upper back pain

  • Personalised treatment plans targeting muscles, ligaments, posture, joints, or movement patterns

  • Hands-on therapies such as sports massage and soft tissue work to reduce pain and improve mobility

  • Rehabilitation exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and function, reducing the risk of re-injury

Whether your upper back pain comes from sports, work, or daily life activities, MTE Rehab & Performance helps you recover safely, regain strength, and return to your normal activities stronger.