Mid-Back Pain

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.

What Is Mid-Back Pain?

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.

Common Symptoms

Aching or stiffness between the shoulder blades
Sharp pain at specific thoracic levels with movement
Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or slouching
Reduced mobility rotating the upper body
Referral pain wrapping around the ribs toward the chest
Thoracic pain accompanying headaches or neck pain

Common Causes & Contributing Factors

Thoracic vertebral subluxation from postural overload
Costovertebral joint restriction and rib fixation
Hyperkyphosis from prolonged sitting and poor ergonomics
Compensatory thoracic tension from lumbar or cervical dysfunction
Muscle strain from heavy lifting or awkward reach

The Pura Vida Protocol: Chiropractic Care for Mid-Back Pain

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.

Advanced Therapies We Combine With Chiropractic

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:

SoftWave Therapy

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.

Class IV Laser Therapy

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.

Why Choose Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio?

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 with most insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, Ambetter, Oscar Health, Community First, and Molina Healthcare. New patient appointments are available promptly.

Ready to Get Relief from Mid-Back Pain?

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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