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Mid-back pain — aching, stiffness, or sharp pain between the shoulder blades and lower ribcage — is typically driven by thoracic joint dysfunction and postural strain. SOT chiropractic care at Pura Vida provides effective relief.
The thoracic spine consists of twelve vertebrae, each articulating with a pair of ribs. Mid-back pain commonly arises from thoracic vertebral subluxations, costovertebral joint restrictions, paraspinal muscle strain, or postural hyperkyphosis placing chronic compressive stress on the thoracic segments. The thoracic spine also houses the autonomic nerve supply to thoracic and abdominal organs — making thoracic dysfunction a contributor not just to back pain but to visceral symptoms including digestive issues, cardiac-like chest discomfort, and respiratory restriction. Addressing thoracic dysfunction comprehensively improves both structural and autonomic health.
Dr. Foss evaluates the entire thoracic spine and rib cage, identifying the specific segments restricted and the direction of correction needed. SOT thoracic adjustments restore normal costovertebral joint mobility and spinal alignment. Because the thoracic spine is structurally linked to both the cervical and lumbar regions, thoracic corrections also improve global spinal function. Patients with chronic mid-back pain often note improvements not only in back pain but in breathing, digestion, and energy levels as thoracic autonomic nerve function is restored.
At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.
For many patients, combining spinal correction with regenerative therapies produces faster and more lasting results. Depending on your condition, Dr. Foss may incorporate one or more of the following:
Patented unfocused shock waves spread over a broad treatment area to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and activate stem cells — promoting cellular regeneration and long-term pain relief.
Photobiomodulation with a 10–15W Class IV laser delivers therapeutic light energy deep into tissue, reducing inflammation, blocking pain signals, and speeding healing at the cellular level.
Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.
We are insurance friendly. Bring your insurance card and ID to the office to verify how your insurance can contribute to your care. New patient appointments are available promptly.
Comparing options? See how to choose a chiropractor near me in San Antonio or read our guide on how to choose the best chiropractor in San Antonio.
Mid-back (thoracic) pain commonly stems from thoracic facet joint dysfunction, rib subluxation, sustained postural patterns (rounded shoulders, forward head), scapular dysfunction, and underlying lumbar or cervical patterns that produce thoracic compensation. Visceral referred pain (gallbladder, stomach, cardiac) should always be screened for.
Dr. Foss uses SOT and specific thoracic adjusting to restore normal joint motion. Costovertebral work addresses rib involvement. Postural retraining targets the rounded-shoulder pattern that maintains thoracic dysfunction. Class IV laser settles inflammation in chronic cases.
Acute mid-back pain often resolves in 4–8 visits. Chronic mid-back pain (>3 months) typically requires 12–20 visits over 8–12 weeks. Maintenance care monthly helps prevent recurrence in postural-driven cases.
Yes. SOT uses gentle techniques appropriate for thoracic adjusting. Dr. Foss screens for visceral causes (cardiac, pulmonary, gastrointestinal) and structural pathology before treating thoracic pain as musculoskeletal.
Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.
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