Upper Back Pain / Stress held in the shoulders and between the shoulder blades.

This is a very common complaint both for people coming to yoga / pilates classes and for acupuncture / massage therapy. Stress is so often held in the shoulders as a protective response to stress and over months and years can lead to chronic upper back pain.

Thankfully this is very easy to remedy and to prevent. Acupuncture and Tuina massage work with or without a combination of relaxing cupping therapy is not only an effective way of relieving this kind of stress but is also a very rlaxing and enjoyable treatment.

But what happen after therapy? If you go back to your old habits then over time the same chronic pain will begin to develop. With a few simple yoga stretches and Pilates movements this can be easily avoided.

Yoga Eagle pose is the most effective to target that tight area between the shoulder blades. Add to this a Pilates spine stretch and the effects can be miraculous in preventing future pain. Both these simple exercises can be done sitting in a chair or even in the driving seat if your car is (fully) stopped in traffic. If you have time at home to do a short 5 to 15 minute routine with some additional simple exercises (Swan dive, Spine Twist, Cat Pose, Dolphin Pose) then not only will the results on the upper back be better but your mood will also lift, you will breathe better and sleep better.

If you would like to discuss this or a similar issue, please don't hesitate to contact us on 086 408 2428 or info@therapyandyoga.com

If you have a medical issue please consult with a medical professional. This blog is informational only and is not intended for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for professional medical advice.