Spine, Back & Neck
Mid-Back & Upper-Back Pain
Discomfort through the thoracic spine and around the shoulder blades.
Also called: Thoracic spine pain, Upper-back pain, Between the shoulder blades.
The thoracic spine connects to the ribs, so mid-back complaints often involve rib movement and breathing mechanics as much as the spinal joints themselves.
Symptoms here can also be referred from the neck or low back rather than starting locally, which is why the whole spine is usually considered, not just the painful area.
Why this matters
Desk work, carrying and deep breathing are commonly affected, and the area frequently reacts to load carried by the neck or low back.
Because it sits between two more mobile regions, the mid-back often absorbs strain that originates elsewhere, which is worth understanding before assuming it is a standalone problem.
The brain & nervous-system connection
Where the nervous system fits in
The thoracic spine houses part of the autonomic nervous system, and breathing mechanics are closely tied to stress-response patterns.
Evaluating rib and thoracic movement alongside breathing patterns gives insight into how stress physiology may be contributing to ongoing tension in this area.
What we look at
We look for patterns, not a single test
- Detailed health history and consultation
- Posture and movement
- Balance and coordination testing
- Palpation and spinal function
- Other examination procedures based on the individual
Not every person receives every test. What we perform depends on your history, your age and what the examination shows as we go. The NeuroInfiniti Stress Response Evaluation is scheduled separately, after joining membership.
Scope of care
What this does — and doesn't — mean
What we do
- • We evaluate chiropractic and musculoskeletal function.
- • We look at nervous-system-related functional findings that fall within our scope.
- • We assess movement, balance and coordination findings.
- • We measure stress-response patterns with the NeuroInfiniti evaluation.
- • We make individualized chiropractic care recommendations and re-measure over time.
What we don't claim
- • We do not diagnose, treat or cure diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer's disease or other neurological diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical care, testing or medication.
- • No outcome is promised. Results vary from person to person.
Common questions
- Will I be adjusted on the first visit?
- When it's clinically appropriate, yes. Your first visit includes a consultation and examination, and Dr. Geran adjusts at that visit when the findings support it.
- Do I need imaging before I come in?
- Not usually. If your history or examination suggests imaging is needed, we will say so and help arrange the right next step.
When medical evaluation may be needed
Some symptoms need medical evaluation first. If anything in your history or examination suggests that, we will say so and help point you in the right direction.
Related at Foothills Chiropractic
- Joint Pain & Staying Active — Shoulders, hips, knees, ankles — extremity function matters as much as the spine.
- Achilles Tendinopathy — Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, usually load-related.
- Ankle Pain — Pain or restriction at the ankle, often after an old injury.
- Ankle Sprain — Ligament injury from rolling or twisting the ankle.
Ready to feel and function better?
Book your first visit and find out what Dr. Mike recommends for you. One price covers your first two visits.