Conditions We Treat
Thoracic Postural Syndrome
What Is It?
Thoracic postural syndrome is a form of mechanical mid-back pain caused by sustained poor posture rather than structural spinal damage.
It commonly affects individuals who spend long periods sitting, slouching, or working at desks or computers. This condition results from muscle fatigue, joint loading, and mechanical strain rather than disc, joint, or nerve pathology.
Symptoms
- Dull, aching pain in the mid or upper back
- Pain worsened by prolonged sitting, computer use, or slouched posture
- Muscle tightness or fatigue across the shoulder blades
- Stiffness that improves with movement or posture correction
- Absence of neurologic symptoms such as numbness or weakness
- Possible associated neck or shoulder discomfort
Diagnosis
- Clinical evaluation with postural assessment (e.g., rounded shoulders, forward head posture)
- Reproduction of symptoms with poor posture and relief with movement or stretching
- Imaging is generally unnecessary unless red flags are present
Treatment
- Postural education and ergonomic correction at work and home
- Physical therapy focusing on strengthening postural muscles and stretching tight structures
- Manual therapy to reduce muscular tension
- Scheduled movement breaks during prolonged sitting
- Home exercise program emphasizing thoracic extension and scapular retraction
- Symptoms typically improve over weeks to months with consistent intervention
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