Burning sensation in the upper back: What to do?

neck pain

Do you have a burning sensation in the top of the back ? If so, you are not alone. Many people experience this problem at one time or another in their life.

In most cases, the cause is mild and can be treated easily. However, it is important to know what to do if the burning sensation is accompanied by other symptoms.

In this article, we will discuss the causes and treatment options for burning sensations in the top of the back !

Cervical Spine Anatomy

La cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae, which are numbered C1 to C7. The vertebrae are separated by intervertebral discs and the entire spine is protected by a layer of cartilage called the annulus fibrosus.

The vertebrae are connected together by facet joints, and muscles and ligaments help hold the spine in place. The discs act as shock absorbers, absorbing impacts and helping the spine move smoothly.

La spine is crossed by the spinal cord, from which the nerves leave which innervate the different tissues of the body. There cervical spine is responsible for supporting the head and neck, and providing a wide range of motion.

It is essential for protecting the spinal cord and ensuring that nerves can send signals to and from the brain.

Neck pain: what is it?

Neck pain is a relatively common condition that causes pain in the neck area. The pain may radiate from top of the back up to the neck, and it is often aggravated by movement.

Neck pain usually lasts a few days or weeks and usually does not cause long-term problems. However, if the pain persists beyond a few weeks, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying cause.

Burning sensation in the upper back: Possible causes?

A burning sensation in the top of the back can have many possible causes (Injurious or progressive over time). Among the most common are:

  • Le torticollis : this is a condition where the muscles in the neck spasm, causing the head to tilt to one side. This condition is often caused by stress or tension and can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers and muscle relaxants.
  • Cervical arthritis : this is a condition where the facet joints of the spine degenerate causing pain and stiffness in the upper and middle back. This condition is more common in older people and can be treated with exercise, physical therapy, and pain medication.
  • Cervical hernia : this is a condition in which a bulb in the spine is damaged which causes pain in the neck and top of the back. This condition can be treated with rest, ice, and elevation of the affected area.
  • The stress : stress can cause back muscles to tense, causing pain and discomfort. Stress can be relieved with relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.
  • Radicalization of the cervical: This is a condition in which the nerves in the neck are compressed, causing pain that radiates down the arm

If the pain radiates down the arm and causes paresthesias, such as numbness or tingling, it is type nerve damage. radiculopathy. This can be due to conditions such as:

  • Cervico-brachial neuralgia: cervico-brachial neuralgia, characterized by shooting pains extending from the neck to the arm.
  • Cervical radiculopathy: Cervical radiculopathy, characterized by intense pain in the neck and shoulders.
  • Compression of the cervical nerves: compression of the cervical nerves can cause numbness, tingling and loss of strength in the arm.

If the pain is persistent or worsens, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying cause.

When to worry: Is upper back pain from cancer?

It's natural to worry when you feel pain in the top of the back, especially if the pain is intense or does not go away. However, it is important to keep in mind that pain in the top of the back is usually not a symptom of cancer.

In fact, most cases of pain in the top of the back are caused by muscle strains or other relatively benign conditions. However, certain symptoms can indicate cancer, and it is important to be aware of them.

If you experience non-mechanical pain (pain that is not related to injury), night sweats, weight loss, digestive disorders, nausea or fatigue, it is worth discussing this with your doctor.

Although these symptoms are often mild, they can also be a sign of cancer, so it is best to exercise caution. However, it is important to remember that cancer is relatively rare, so pain in the top of the back is a sign of the disease.

Diagnosis of burning sensation in the upper back

If you feel a burning sensation in the top of the back, it is important to see a medical professional to receive a proper diagnosis.

It will likely start with a physical examination, which may include a neurological examination if the pain radiates to the back (upper back or middle back) or is associated with tingling or numbness (paraesthesia).

If necessary, he may order medical imaging tests such as an MRI or EMG to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. Once diagnosed, he or she can offer you treatment options to help relieve your pain and improve your quality of life.

In some cases, simple home remedies may be enough to provide relief, while other cases may require more aggressive treatments, such as medication or surgery.

Either way, it's important to see a medical professional in order to receive the care and treatment you need.

What to do if you feel a burn in your upper back?

Most people experience some form of neck pain at some point in their lives. The good news is that the neck pain are generally relatively easy to treat and do not require invasive procedures.

The most common approach is to try a few conservative treatments, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, and heat therapy.

If these treatments do not provide relief, then patients can consider alternative treatments, such as acupuncture or massage.

In rare cases, when neck pain is severe and unresponsive to other treatments, the surgery may be an option. However, most people will find that their neck pain can be managed by non-invasive methods.

Back to top