What Causes Pain in the Middle of Your Back?

Middle back pain typically stems from muscle strain, poor posture, or spinal issues affecting the thoracic region. Muscle strains account for approximately 85% of back pain cases and often result from heavy lifting, sudden movements, or prolonged sitting. Herniated discs, though less common in the middle back than lower back, can compress nerves and cause significant discomfort. Other causes include osteoarthritis, which affects over 32 million adults, spinal stenosis, or compression fractures from osteoporosis. Workplace ergonomics play a crucial role, as spending more than 6 hours daily at a desk increases risk by 40%. Inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis or referred pain from internal organs can also manifest as middle back pain.