The goal of the chiropractor treating a patient for thoracic back pain will usually focus on reducing the pain and inflammation in the area. However, the source of the pain and inflammation may be due to chronic spinal joint restrictions. Such joint restrictions may be related to poor posture, alignment or from old (healed) injuries or past trauma (auto, sports or misadventures in life).
Sharp mid back pain (involving the ribs), often aggravated with movement of the shoulder and arm, may be related to misalignment where the rib (rib head) connects to spinal vertebral body. Pain is usually sharp, intense and aggravated with deep inhalation.
Before deciding which approach to try for your pain, Dr. Lipkin will go through your past medical history and review your current onset and symptoms. He will perform an examination to diagnose the specific cause of your back pain by checking for restricted movement, alignment, and posture.
In addition, he may order imaging tests (x-ray or MRI) to help diagnose the exact cause of your condition. If your condition is not considered to be of chiropractic benefit, Dr. Lipkin will refer you to the appropriate specialist.
A treatment plan customized for you will be created and reviewed to your understanding.
For treatment, a combination of spinal manipulation, manual therapy, or other techniques will be reviewed based upon your need.
Flexion-distraction technique is a gentle, hands-on spinal manipulation that involves a pumping action on the intervertebral disc instead of direct force.
Specific spinal manipulation helps restore joint movement using a gentle thrusting technique.
Manual joint stretching and resistance techniques can help reduce neck pain and other symptoms.
Trigger point therapy is used to relieve tight, painful points on a muscle.
Inferential electrical stimulation uses a low frequency electrical current to stimulate neck muscles.
Therapeutic exercises may also be recommended, rendered or prescribed to promote healing and to help improve overall range of motion in your back and to prevent your back pain from progressing.