Can pectoral muscles cause back pain?

Back pain is usually the result of muscle strain or spasm. One of the most common areas is in the upper back in a muscle called the trapezius. Trapezius issues are often associated with spasm and strain in a surprising area: the front of the chest wall and the pectoralis muscles.

What causes muscle spasms in upper back and chest?

How does an upper back muscle spasm happen? A pulled upper back muscle can be caused by new or unaccustomed exercise or lifting more weight than you are used to. But mostly upper back muscle spasm happens because of overuse, poor posture and muscle fatigue.

Why does my chest muscle and back hurt?

Chest and back pain can be a cause for concern, especially if a person has an underlying condition such as heart disease or cancer. Some other possible causes of chest and back pain include infections, digestive conditions, and injuries to muscle, bone, or other tissues within the chest.

Can muscle spasms in back cause chest pain?

Spinal problems In some cases, a pinched nerve in the upper part of the spine may cause pain to radiate to the area of the chest and possibly to the extremities. In addition to pain, other symptoms you may experience include muscle spasms and stiffness in the affected area of the spine, which may restrict movement.

What are the symptoms of muscle spasms in the back?

The way people describe their muscle spasms are varied and many, but the most common consistent symptoms of muscle spasms related to back and neck pain are: Severe pain. Tension and tightness in the muscle. Forward leaning posture. Inability to move the affected part of the back or neck.

Who is a physical therapist for back spasms?

Laura Campedelli, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist with experience in hospital-based acute care and outpatient therapy with both children and adults. Muscle spasms, often the result of injury, can make for a very tense back.

How to get rid of lower back spasms?

Treating lower back spasms. Medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants may help relieve symptoms while the muscles heal. Research supports that muscle relaxants provide significant pain relief in short-term muscle spasms. Injections of an anti-inflammatory medication (cortisone) may also help.

Can a heart attack cause pectoral muscle spasms?

Most commonly damage or strain to these muscles can cause increased discomfort. Along with that discomfort may come spasms. Many people mistake pectoral spasms for a heart attack, primarily if they occur on the left side of the body. The contraction can be quite intense as these muscles are strong and large.