Jeanne Kennedy Crosby, D.C.: What's Your Problem?

The thoracic spine is the part of your back between your neck and your low back. Your ribs are also attached to your thoracic spine. There are generally two types of upper backs: ones that need to be extended (more rounded) and ones that need to be flexed (more flat). Muscle strains in the middle and lower trapezius, diaphragm strain, liver and gallbladder dysfunction, rib cartilage strain, shoulder blade and rotator cuff problems, and rib misalignment can all be factors in upper back pain. Because the thoracic spine is so connected with digestive organs and cardio-pulmonary function, good health of the whole body supports the structural correction.