Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, but will include pain relieving and anti-inflammatory drugs, gentle execises. The use of a soft collar to immobilise the neck also helps in giving the damaged area time to heal. The middle of the back bears the brunt of postural faults, which can lead to disc wear and tear, and fairly common developmental faults that are caused by misalignment of the vertebrae or rotational abnormalities, called scoliosis and kyphosis. Certain conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis cause inflammation in internal organs and joints. The pain and stiffness associated with these conditions is also felt in the mid-back, and referral to a rheumatologist is essential.
Treatment usually involves anti-inflammatory drugs.
Wearing high heeled footwear is also a contributory factor. These causes either individually or in conjunction with each other can sprain or overstretch the muscles and ligaments surrounding the spine to the point of tearing. Disc injury is more common in in the lumbar region. Rest combined with physiotherapy is needed to relieve pressure on the affected nerves. Women are more vulnerable to the problems in the sacroiliac joint, where the base of the spine meets the top of the hipbone, particularly during pregnancy, when there is increase in the hormone relaxin.