Ask a PT

156 Posts
 
Posted - 11/09/2007 :  09:53:28  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Our user asked: "I have been experiencing a pain in my left middle back that alternated from a dull ache to a somewhat sharp pain. Ibuprophen helps a little. My heating pad does not help at all. It is worse with a lot of activity and with a lot of sitting around. I recently saw my family physician, who said that it was musculoskeletal after an x-ray. What should I do?"

Ask a PT Response: "Mid back pain can be associated with many conditions. An x-ray will rule out any structural or joint problems. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which can act as an analgesic especially when there is an inflammatory response. Therefore, that could be why it may be helping somewhat with the control of your pain. You did not mention if the pain was the result of some activity you had performed or if the pain developed for no known reason. This would be important information. If your physician has diagnosed you with a musculoskeletal injury and things have not improved, I would recommend that you consult with a physical therapist. He or she would be able to conduct a more thorough evaluation and determine the cause of your pain, develop a plan of care and provide the appropriate treatment for you. Good luck with your condition and thank you for using CyberPT."