Mid Back (Thoracic) Injuries

Mid back or thoracic injuries are injuries to the chest, ribs, spine, and other structures in the thoracic region.

They can be caused by a variety of factors, including falls, collisions, and repetitive motions. Some of the most common thoracic sports injuries include:

• Rib fractures: Rib fractures are the most common type of thoracic sports injury. They can be caused by a direct blow to the chest, such as from a football tackle or a fall from a height. Rib fractures can also be caused by repetitive motions, such as those involved in baseball pitching or rowing.
  
  
• Thoracic spine injuries: Thoracic spine injuries can range from minor sprains and strains to serious fractures and spinal cord injuries. They are most common in high-impact sports, such as football, rugby, and snowboarding.
  
  
• Pneumothorax: Pneumothorax is a collapsed lung. It can be caused by a puncture wound to the chest or by a blunt force trauma, such as from a car accident or a sports injury.
  
  

Other thoracic sports injuries include:

• Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum.
  
  
• Thoracic outlet syndrome: A condition that occurs when the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet are compressed.
  
  
• Serratus anterior muscle strain: A strain of the muscle that attaches the scapula to the rib cage.
  
  
• Pectoralis major muscle strain: A strain of the muscle that attaches the chest to the upper arm bone.

Thoracic sports injuries can be serious, so it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any pain or discomfort in your chest, ribs, or back after playing sports.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent long-term complications.

How to prevent thoracic sports injuries:

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent thoracic sports injuries, including:

• Warm up properly before playing sports.
  
  
• Wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet, chest protector, and rib pads.
  
  
• Use proper technique when playing sports.

Physio Performance can help you identify what is causing your symptoms and how best to fix them.