Burning in the upper back

What is meant by burning in the upper back?

Burning in the upper back generally describes a sensation of discomfort. This can be felt superficially, under the skin or more deeply. In addition, the burning sensation is also regarded as a quality of pain.

The burning sensation is therefore often referred to by those affected as a burning pain. The burning sensation is usually difficult to localise and extends over a large area. If a burning pain occurs, it is also called neuropathic pain, i.e. pain originating from the nerves. If a burning sensation occurs in the upper back, a doctor should be consulted to clarify the cause.

Causes of burning in the upper back

Many different causes can trigger a burning sensation in the upper back. In general, the burning sensation can be caused by muscular, bony or even organic diseases. Muscular or bony injuries, especially if nerves are irritated, can cause a burning sensation.

For example, muscular tension in the upper back can manifest itself as a burning sensation. Injuries to the ribs, for example after an accident, can also cause nerve irritation and consequently a burning sensation. If the burning pain in the upper back occurs on only one side, shingles (herpes zoster) can be responsible for the burning sensation.

An urgent cause of a burning sensation in the thorax or upper back that needs to be clarified is the so-called angina pectoris. This is a symptom that occurs when the heart is not supplied with sufficient oxygen. As there is a risk that this can lead to a heart attack, this cause of burning should be urgently ruled out.

Diseases of the lungs, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, can also manifest themselves through burning pain. In very rare cases, sudden, severe and almost tearing pain is a ruptured aortic aneurysm. An aneurysm describes a bulging of the vessel wall. In an aortic aneurysm, the aorta is affected. In rare cases, this aneurysm can tear.

Treatment of upper back burning

The treatment depends on the underlying cause. In case of muscular tension or lumbago, a pain therapy should be carried out. In addition, supportive physiotherapy and, in the later course, back training to strengthen the musculature are appropriate.

Bronchitis and pneumonia should be treated symptomatically by bed rest and plenty of fluids. Painkillers and antipyretic medication can also be taken. If it is an inflammation caused by bacteria, antibiotic therapy is essential.

On the one hand, shingles is treated with local creams which have an anti-inflammatory effect. On the other hand, it is important to treat the pain with painkillers such as ibuprofen, paracetamol or, depending on the intensity of the pain, with weakly effective opioids. In some cases, for example in patients over 50, an antiviral therapy with Aciclovir is appropriate.

If it is an angina pectoris attack, acute treatment is usually given with nitroglycerine spray, which is sprayed under the tongue. This agent dilates the vessels around the heart and thus improves blood circulation. In the following – especially after the first seizure – a permanent therapy with a blood thinner such as ASS should be carried out.

A ruptured aortic aneurysm, on the other hand, requires urgent surgical treatment. In addition, other underlying diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus or increased fat levels should be treated with medication. A change in diet, weight loss, abstinence from nicotine and sufficient physical exercise are also important.

If you want to improve your lifestyle, the duration of the complaints also depends on the underlying cause and of course on timely treatment. Muscular complaints should subside after a few weeks if treated correctly. Bronchitis or pneumonia last for one to two weeks, depending on how severe they are.

If an angina pectoris attack occurs, it is usually over after 10 minutes, but can recur at any time with renewed physical exertion and without adequate treatment. It is important that shingles is treated with painkillers as soon as possible. In general, the disease can take several weeks to heal completely. However, there is a risk of so-called post-zoster neuralgia, in which pain can persist for months after shingles if not treated in time.