Painlink

Muscle · Back · Upper back

Upper back pain

Common at this spot

Ordered by how common, not by search volume.

  1. Upper trapezius tightness

    The band from the neck to the shoulder feels rock hard and sore

  2. Cervical sprain

    The neck is stiff and hard to turn, with a headache following

    Get help right away if

    Call emergency services or go to A&E if you heard a crack when it happened, if the injured part has changed shape, if it has turned blue or grey, or if it feels numb.

    Why it happens

    Something has been overstretched or torn — here, the muscles and ligaments of the neck. It happens when you overstretch or twist, and more easily if you did not warm up or it was already tired.

    How it feels

    • Pain, tenderness, or weakness
    • Swelling or bruising
    • Muscle cramping or spasms
    • You cannot put weight on it or use it normally

    How long it usually lasts

    Most feel better after about 2 weeks. Avoid heavy exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks.

    When to see a doctor

    Get advice if severe pain is getting worse, if swelling or bruising is bad or worsening, if you cannot put weight on it or move it, or if you have a high temperature or feel shivery (that can mean infection).

    Source: NHS (UK)

  3. Rounded shoulders

    The shoulders roll forward and the upper back is permanently tight

  4. Levator scapulae syndrome

    Where the neck meets the shoulder hurts too much to turn your head

  5. Thoracic outlet syndrome

    The arm tingles, the hand goes cold, and strength fades when held up

    Get help right away if

    Get urgent care if one arm has throbbing or cramping pain with swelling, redness, and warmth. Call emergency services if you suddenly become short of breath, have sharp chest pain, or cough up blood.

    Why it happens

    Nerves or blood vessels near the top of the ribs are squashed. It can come from an extra rib present from birth, poor posture, repeated arm movements, or a chest injury.

    How it feels

    • It usually affects one arm and hand
    • Pins and needles, which can be worse at night
    • Pain and swelling in the arm
    • The hand and arm feel cold
    • The skin turns blue, grey, or pale

    When to see a doctor

    See a doctor if you have these symptoms.

    Source: NHS (UK)

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