The causes of body stress in the mid and upper back
The chest and back areas may be strained by working in a hunched or twisted posture, e.g. bending over a sewing machine, doing woodwork, etc. Body stress may be caused by lifting heavy objects or by holding something up for a long time. Body stress may also occur as a painful spasm of the diaphragm muscle.
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Besides the mechanical causes mentioned above, the cause may be emotional tension, such as shock or anxiety, e.g. the typical “butterflies in the stomach” feeling. In addition the cause may be chemical, e.g. irritation from eating or drinking something spicy, acid or very cold. If there is body stress in the lower back, it may be referred into the muscles of the chest and upper back.
The effects of body stress in the mid and upper back
There may be a mild, nagging ache in the upper back between the shoulder blades, or possibly a persistent itching. The body stress may also manifest as a severe stabbing pain in this area, or in the chest. The pain is worsened by deep breathing. Body stress in the diaphragm muscle may result in
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indigestion or heartburn, or a feeling of breathlessness. It may also manifest as a constant feeling of hunger. Body stress in the mid and upper back may have an impact on the nerve supply to various internal organs, such as heart, lungs, kidneys and bladder, and may interfere with normal function.
Advice to minimise stress in the mid and upper back
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Do not remain working in a hunched or twisted posture for any lengthy period. Take frequent breaks or change position.
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In heavy lifting the object should be held close to the body. Do not carry heavy objects without assistance.
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Avoid foods and drinks which tend to cause indigestion or heartburn, and certain food combinations which cause bloating and pressure in the diaphragm area.
Case Studies
A case of Pseudo Heart Attack
After cutting the lawn with his mower, a man in his 40’s gulped down a large glass of iced juice. Suddenly he experienced severe chest pain and breathlessness. After a number of tests by a cardiologist the man was given the “all clear” but he was still concerned that there was something terribly wrong as the chest pain continued. Finally he came to BSR hoping for some relief. The tests for body stress indicated tension in the sternum, ribs and diaphragm as well as in the spine. After the releases all pain withdrew and did not recur.
Stomach pains
Every few months a four year old girl would wake up in the night with severe stomach pain. On each occasion she was rushed to hospital but all tests were negative. After a few hours the pain would ease. The BSR assessment showed body stress in the lower rib and diaphragm areas. Questioning the mother revealed that the little girl at times requested iced fruit juice before going to sleep. The problem did not recur as the mother withheld the iced drinks.
The Bayonet in the Back
An artist of 68 complained of a deep searing pain in his back and breathlessness and pain in his shoulders. He often experienced indigestion and pain killers didn’t help. He found that immediately after his BSR session the pain would disappear but usually returned a few days later. After stress was released and he changed his hunched over working position to one of a more upright posture he remained pain free.