Upper/Mid Back Injuries/Conditions - pulled muscle in mid back?

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pulled muscle in mid back?

Printed From: CyberPT - Your Online Physical Therapy Resource
Category: Patient Forum
Forum Name: Upper/Mid Back Injuries/Conditions
Forum Description: Patients can post questions and experiences about upper/mid back injuries/conditions.
URL: http://www.cyberpt.com/ptforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=684
Printed Date: Apr 20 2024 at 6:18am
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Topic: pulled muscle in mid back?

Posted By: Ask a PT
Subject: pulled muscle in mid back?
Date Posted: Jul 06 2010 at 10:12am

Our user asked: "Hi! I seemed to have pulled a muscle mid back. It is below my shoulderblade between my spine and my side, but I definitely am aware of the pulled muscle wrapping around my ribs (left side). It gets very stiff during the night, while sitting without support for long periods of time, and is very difficult to stretch! It happened after moving a mattress after just waking up...felt fine, and then moved really quickly and it spasmed. That was 10 days ago. It has felt better some days, and others it is more stiff. Any recommendations on treating it? Stretches I might be able to do? Strengthening? Thanks!"

Ask a PT Response: "From what you described, there could be a variety of muscles involved ie. latissimus dorsi muscle, serratus posterior muscle, external intercostal muscles, etc. Without physically examining you I would be unable to determine which muscle(s) is involved. For my patients that have similar conditions such as this, I would have them utilize a hot pack and/or massage to the affected area to see if that can decrease the stiffness. If this continues to bother you, it may be a good idea to consult with a physical therapist."