The middle back known as thoracic spine starts below the cervical spine. Each vertebra is attached to a pair of ribs, which form the rib cage. The rib cage protects our very vital organs, like the heart, lungs, liver, spleen and stomach. These ribs are joined to the breast bone and are, therefore, comparatively rigid. The vertebral alignment in the thoracic region suddenly changes from the first thoracic vertebra, which is concave, to convex.

Diseases affecting the thoracic vertebrae or those, which cause pressure on intercostal nerves, produce intense pain.

This is referred to, in medical terms, as Intercostal Neuralgia. It occurs due to irritation of the nerves emerging from the spinal cord between the ribs. It has been observed that patients are often asked to take medicines, which are mostly in the form of painkillers that do nothing more than giving temporary relief. In fact, it is seen that at times this pain is often mistaken for a heart ailment and is treated accordingly, resulting in wrong medication. A simple repositioning of the vertebrae can greatly help eliminate the pain. Problems in this region are very rare.Prevention of middle back pain is also of great importance. Preventive methods include:

• Quit smoking

• Exercising regularly

• Stretching out the muscles before exercising

• Having a good posture

The above methods will help you maintain your proper body weight and also strengthen the muscles through the body. Make sure you ease into the exercise routine.