Why Mid-Back & Shoulder Pain Is So Common

Jan 22, 2026

Many people think back pain only affects the lower back, but mid-back and shoulder pain are just as common—and often just as disruptive.

If you’ve been dealing with tight shoulders, burning between the shoulder blades, or stiffness when you turn your head or reach overhead, you’re not alone.

Why Mid-Back & Shoulder Pain Is So Common

Modern lifestyles put a lot of strain on this area of the body. Common contributors include:

  • Prolonged sitting and poor posture (especially at desks or on phones)
  • Repetitive movements at work or during workouts
  • Stress and tension that causes muscles to tighten
  • Old injuries or limited mobility in the spine or shoulders
    When the mid-back (thoracic spine) and shoulders don’t move properly, nearby muscles and joints are forced to overwork—leading to pain, stiffness, and fatigue.

How Chiropractic & Physical Rehab Can Help

The good news is that mid-back and shoulder pain often responds very well to conservative care. Treatment may include:

  • Gentle chiropractic adjustments to improve spinal and joint mobility
  • Targeted rehab exercises to strengthen weak or underused muscles
  • Soft tissue work to relieve muscle tension and trigger points
  • Postural guidance to reduce daily strain and prevent flare-ups
    Our goal isn’t just temporary relief—we focus on correcting the underlying cause so pain is less likely to return.

Simple Tip You Can Try Today

Take a posture break every 30–60 minutes. Gently pull your shoulders back and down, take a few deep breaths, and move your upper back through a comfortable range of motion. Small habits can make a big difference over time.

Need to do

If mid-back or shoulder pain is interfering with your work, sleep, or workouts, don’t wait for it to get worse. Schedule an evaluation with our team and find out what’s really causing your discomfort.

👉 Call our office or book your appointment online today and take the first step toward moving—and feeling—better.

To your health,
Dr. Green