Upper Left Back Pain: Complete Guide to Relief and Recovery

Experiencing a nagging ache or sharp twinge in your upper left back can be unsettling and disruptive. This discomfort, located anywhere from the base of your neck to the bottom of your rib cage, can stem from simple muscle strain or indicate a more complex issue. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward finding effective relief and a lasting recovery from upper left back pain.

What Is Upper Left Back Pain?

Upper left back pain refers to any discomfort felt in the left thoracic region of your spine, which includes the area between your shoulder blades and behind your rib cage. The sensation can range from a dull, persistent ache and general stiffness to a sharp, burning pain. This mid-back pain can limit your movement and significantly impact your daily activities.

Is Upper Left Back Pain Common?

If you spend any extended time hunched over a computer or phone, chances are you’ve experienced some form of upper back pain. Even as an athlete the chances of getting hurt in the thoracic region i.e., the upper region of the spine is high. Though the upper left side back pain is less common than lower back pain or neck pain, a study posted to Occupational Medicine indicated that 1 in 10 men and 1 in 5 women suffer from upper back pain.

Because we use our back for almost everything, it is an incredibly important part of the human body. Working or walking, is essential in almost everything we do every day. However, it is also an incredibly delicate part of the body as well. Even minor injuries can leave us feeling pain and discomfort for months, or even years and impact our daily lives. Upper left back pain is difficult and annoying to deal with. It can be both frustrating and puzzling, especially when the cause is unknown.

Upper back pain is especially vital because it works with your ribs to keep your body stable and protect vital organs such as your heart and lungs. Often pain in the upper back can be an underlying cause of something serious in the vital organs of the body. Something that may seem like a regular pain can turn out to be a health hazard if not given due care. 

Common Causes of Upper Left Back Pain

This type of upper back discomfort often originates from musculoskeletal issues but can sometimes point to problems with internal organs. The most frequent causes include:

• Muscle Strain or Sprain: Overuse, poor posture, heavy lifting, or sudden awkward movements can injure the muscles and ligaments in your back.
• Thoracic Spine Issues: Problems with the vertebrae in your upper back, such as a herniated disc or spinal degeneration, can cause localized or radiating thoracic back pain. Nerve compression in this area is a common trigger.
• Poor Posture: Slouching at a desk or while using a smartphone puts continuous stress on your spine and back muscles, leading to chronic pain in the upper left back.
• Scapular (Shoulder Blade) Dysfunction: Improper movement or positioning of the shoulder blade can strain surrounding muscles, causing sharp pain between the shoulder blades.

Poor posture

The aftermath of the pandemic has made jobs primarily conducted from home and the work is focused on screens and chairs. Slouching in a chair over a desk without taking breaks causes a loss of strength in the muscles. With the unavailability of a proper workstation for a large number of people, slouching worsens causing pressure from gravity and the body itself to push on the spine, neck, discs, and ligaments. Over time, this pressure can lead to pain and other complications.

The weakening of muscles may lead to pain as they experience strains or irritation. Slouching causes an unaligned spine and body, making for poor posture, which also creates pressure and stress on your back muscles. Hunching over a phone or standing with the pelvis tucked out also leads to strain. The prolonged strain on the back here is evident, resulting in upper back pain. 

Muscle injuries

Improper lifting technique, continuous stress on muscles by irregular intense workouts, overusing back muscles by repeating the same motions over time, or any form of muscle injury are other causes of upper back pain. Such strain can cause tightness, irritation, and headache too. These symptoms are most often overlooked, causing chronic pain in the back.

Disk herniation

Discs in the spine are soft, rubbery cushions that act as soft “shock absorbers” between vertebrae. If ruptured or herniated, the discs bulge, putting pressure on the spinal nerves and triggering pain. This however can be difficult to diagnose because in some cases, there are no noticeable symptoms. Otherwise, pain, numbness, and weakness can also occur in the upper left back region.  This also progresses at night or by walking or running.

Bone spurs

Bone spurs or osteophytes are bony lumps that grow on the bones of the spine or around the joints. It is caused when the cartilage that protects the bones wears down, removing the cushion between the bones leading to pain. It can happen anywhere but the spine is most commonly affected where it causes numbness or tingling in the arms and the legs.

Spinal stenosis

The narrowing of spaces within the spine is called spinal stenosis which can put pressure on the nerves of the spine. It is also caused by bone spurs. It may have no symptoms but sometimes can be identified by neck pain or pain, weakness, or numbness in arms or legs. If untreated, it can cause serious and permanent damage. 

Kidney Problems (Infection or Stones)

Pain from the left kidney can radiate upward and manifest as upper left back pain. Kidney infections often come with fever, nausea, or chills, while kidney stones cause severe cramping pain that may fluctuate in intensity. These conditions require urgent medical attention for diagnosis and management.

Pancreatitis or Digestive Disorders

Inflammation of the pancreas can trigger upper left side back pain, especially after eating greasy or heavy meals. Pain may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or bloating. Similarly, gastric ulcers or acid reflux can also radiate discomfort to the left side of the back, often misinterpreted as muscular pain.

Lung Conditions (Pneumonia or Pleurisy)

Infections like pneumonia or inflammation of the lung lining (pleurisy) can cause upper left back pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or lying flat. These conditions are often accompanied by shortness of breath, fever, or fatigue, and should be evaluated promptly.

Heart-Related Issues

Though uncommon, heart conditions such as angina or early heart attack may cause referred left side back pain, especially in older adults or those with cardiovascular risks. This pain may feel like tightness or pressure and could be accompanied by chest discomfort, dizziness, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw.

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Before the telltale rash appears, shingles can cause burning, itching, or nerve-related pain in the upper left back. This typically affects one side and may be mistaken for muscular strain or a pinched nerve in the early stages.

Symptoms to Watch For

While a dull ache is common, other symptoms can accompany left upper back pain:

• Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain.
• Muscle tightness and stiffness.
• Pain that worsens with specific movements, coughing, or deep breaths.
• Referred Pain Symptoms: In some cases, the pain may originate from an organ. Heart-related issues can cause left-sided chest and back pain, while problems with the lungs or abdominal organs can also radiate to this area. Seek immediate medical attention if back pain is joined by shortness of breath, chest pain, or fever.
• Neurological Symptoms: If a nerve is compressed, you might experience tingling, numbness, or weakness that radiates into your arm or chest.

What Increases Your Risk of Upper Left Side Back Pain?

While upper back pain is often the result of acute trauma or repetitive motion injury, some factors will make you more susceptible:

• Smoking- It slows down the blood flow to the spine. If there is an injury in the back while you are smoking, the pain will be more intense and more difficult to heal.
• Excess body weight- It can put pressure on the spine which can lead to soreness in later life.
• Lack of physical activity- It can weaken the muscle over time and can cause intense pain in the core muscles.
• Increasing age- It can cause wear and tear in the spine and can cause scoliosis or other back-related conditions.

Other risk factors that can intensify the back pain include:

• Depression and anxiety 
• Fibromyalgia 
• Paget’s disease
• Poor posture
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Stress and anxiety
• Excessive lifting or carrying
• Participating in contact sports
• Family history of back pain or spine disease
• Congenital (present at birth) or acquired back deformities (such as scoliosis)

When Does Upper Left Side Back Pain Flare Up? Common Triggers Explained

Upper left side back pain may not always be constant—it often appears or worsens during specific activities. Recognising these triggers can help identify underlying causes and improve your treatment plan. Whether it's related to posture, organ function, or physical strain, these patterns offer important diagnostic clues.

Upper Left Back Pain While Eating

Experiencing pain in the left side of back after meals may signal issues with your digestive organs, such as the pancreas, gallbladder, or stomach lining. Conditions like pancreatitis or gastritis often cause discomfort that radiates to the upper left back after eating fatty or heavy meals.

Upper Left Back Pain When Breathing

If left side back pain intensifies while breathing, it could be due to pleurisy, lung inflammation, or even a musculoskeletal strain. In rare cases, it could indicate a more serious concern, such as a pulmonary embolism or cardiac event, especially if accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath.

Upper Left Back Pain After Sleeping

Waking up with upper left side back pain can often be traced to poor posture during sleep or improper mattress support. Overnight muscle stiffness and inflammation can also worsen this type of discomfort, especially if back muscles are already weak or overused.

Upper Left Back Pain While Walking or Running

Activity-induced upper left back pain may be caused by muscle strain, spinal misalignment, or poor biomechanics. For individuals with posture-related issues or scoliosis, walking or running may aggravate pressure on the thoracic spine and soft tissues along the left side of the back.

How Upper Left Side Back Pain Manifests in Women: Is It Different? 

Upper left side back pain can affect women differently due to several unique biological and lifestyle-related factors. While men and women may share many of the same root causes, the following factors make women more vulnerable:

• Hormonal fluctuations: Fluctuations in oestrogen levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to inflammation, fluid retention, or ligament laxity - all of which may contribute to pain in the left side of the back.
• Poor Posture: Postural strain from daily activities like carrying children, breastfeeding, or prolonged standing can overload the thoracic muscles, increasing the risk of upper left side back pain.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health: Bone loss due to osteoporosis becomes more common post-menopause, making women more susceptible to vertebral fractures and sudden or chronic upper left back pain.
• Underlying Conditions: Certain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, endometriosis (with referred back pain), or autoimmune disorders, disproportionately affect women and may cause or worsen upper left back pain symptoms.

How Doctors Diagnose Upper Left Back Pain

A precise diagnosis is key to effective treatment. At Physiotattva, our experts use a comprehensive approach:

• Orthopedic and Physical Tests: We assess your range of motion, palpate the area to identify tender spots, and perform resistance tests to check muscle strength.
• Neurological Examination: Our physiotherapists conduct tests on your reflexes, sensation, and strength to assess for any nerve involvement.
• Imaging Tests: If a serious condition like a fracture or herniated disc is suspected, an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan may be recommended to get a clear picture of your spine and surrounding tissues.

Upper Left Back Pain Treatment Options

Your treatment for upper left back pain will be tailored to its specific cause.

Home Remedies and Self-Care

For minor strains, you can relieve upper left back pain at home by applying ice for the first 48 hours to reduce inflammation, followed by heat to relax muscles. Over-the-counter pain relievers and gentle stretching can also provide relief.

Physiotherapy and Mobility Exercises

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments. A skilled physiotherapist will design a program including:

• Manual therapy to release muscle tension.
• Upper left back pain exercises to strengthen weak muscles and improve posture.
• Mobility drills for physiotherapy for thoracic pain to restore flexibility.
• Ergonomics advice to prevent recurrence.

Medical Treatment

For persistent or severe pain, a doctor might recommend anti-inflammatory injections to reduce swelling around the nerves. Surgery is rarely needed and is reserved for serious structural issues that don’t respond to conservative care.

Surgical Intervention (If Required)

Surgery is only recommended when structural damage is significant and unresponsive to conservative care. Indications for surgery may include:

• Spinal stenosis with nerve compression
• Disc herniation causing severe pain or neurological deficits
• Bone spurs pressing on spinal nerves
• Osteoporotic fractures of the vertebrae

Specialised Treatment for Organ-Related Causes

If upper left back pain is referred from internal organs, targeted treatment is necessary. This includes:

• Kidney stone treatment, such as lithotripsy, hydration therapy, or surgical removal
• Pancreatitis management with fasting, IV fluids, and enzyme control
• Cardiac-related interventions in cases where back pain signals angina or an early heart attack

Such conditions should never be self-treated and require urgent medical attention.

How to Prevent Upper Left Back Pain

Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent upper left back pain, focus on:

• Correcting Your Posture: Sit and stand tall, with your shoulders back and your core engaged.
• Creating an Ergonomic Workspace: Adjust your chair, desk, and monitor to support a neutral spine.
• Warming Up: Always warm up before exercise or strenuous activity.
• Taking Regular Breaks: Avoid sitting or standing in one position for too long.

When to Seek Help for Upper Left Side Back Pain

While many cases of upper left side back pain improve with self-care or physiotherapy, some symptoms may point to more serious underlying conditions. Early evaluation can prevent complications and ensure targeted treatment.

You should seek medical help immediately if you experience:

• Sudden or severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
• Persistent pain lasting more than a week, especially if it's worsening
• Pain that radiates to your chest, shoulder, arm, or abdomen
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin, which may signal cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency
• Difficulty breathing, dizziness, or chest tightness, which could indicate a cardiac or lung issue
• Fever, nausea, or painful urination along with back pain — potentially related to kidney or digestive disorders

If you're unsure about the source of your back pain, it's always safer to consult a physiotherapist or physician. Timely diagnosis can prevent chronic complications and speed up recovery.

Embracing Your Upper Left Side Back Pain with Physiotattva

At Physiotattva, we offer expert guidance and comprehensive strategies to manage and prevent upper left-side back pain. Our holistic approach includes personalized physical therapy, nutritional advice, and tailored treatment plans. We emphasize regular exercise, proper hydration, and effective stress management to maintain healthy muscles and flexibility. With Physiotattva, you receive the support and expertise needed to alleviate discomfort and enhance your quality of life.

At Physiotattva physiotherapy clinics in Bangalore and Hyderabad, you receive personalised care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring effective results and comfort throughout your journey to recovery. 

Don’t wait to start your recovery! Get in touch with Physiotattva for more details! Contact us at +91 89510 47001.

Frequently Asked Questions

What organ is in the upper left back?

The upper back is the area between the base of the neck and the bottom of the ribcage. There are 12 bones that make up the upper back, which is called the thoracic spine. The first bone of the upper back begins at the base of the neck, and the 12th bone ends just below the ribcage. Upper back pain can appear anywhere between these bones.

When should one worry about upper back pain?

If the upper left side back pain is severe, if your range of movement is severely restricted without improvement, then visit a doctor.

You should also seek medical help after an injury or if you experience:

• numbness or tingling
• intense pain after a sports injury
• fever along with pain
• trouble breathing
• unexplained weight loss
• difficulty urinating

Is surgery needed for left side back pain?

Surgery is highly dependent on what the doctor perceives the next step after diagnosis should be. Most causes of upper back pain are cured at home or by some way of physiotherapy. Surgery is only done when the reasons for pain are too severe. It is done to repair fractures, remove bone spurs, cure spinal stenosis, or remove a bulging disc. 

Is upper left side back pain a symptom of a heart attack?

In some cases, upper left back pain may be a referred symptom of a heart attack, especially if it occurs with chest tightness, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Immediate evaluation is recommended.

What is the treatment cost for upper left side back pain in India?

The cost of spine surgery in India ranges from INR 60,000 to INR 4,50,000 depending on the complexity and the hospital you choose. The operations can be carried out by anterior, posterior, or lateral approach. The methodology opted by the surgeons to operate is also a factor affecting the cost of the surgery.