Sydney Upper Back Pain Physiotherapy
Expert upper back pain physiotherapy in Sydney focuses on assessment, targeted exercises, and hands on treatment to support improved posture and function.
Expert Upper Back Pain Care In Sydney
Comprehensive assessment and evidence based treatment help you understand your upper back pain and work toward your movement goals.
Upper back pain affects how people work at desks, drive, lift objects, and complete daily activities. Pain may feel sharp, dull, burning, or tight between the shoulder blades or along the thoracic spine. Many people develop rounded shoulders or forward head posture to avoid discomfort, which can increase muscle tension and joint stiffness over time.
Physiotherapy for upper back pain focuses on improving posture, building strength in weak muscles, and releasing tight areas. Treatment typically includes manual therapy, specific exercises for the upper back and shoulder blade muscles, and education about workstation setup and movement habits. Clear guidance helps you understand which postures to modify, how to strengthen supporting muscles, and how to stay active within your tolerance.
Without proper management, upper back pain can persist and affect quality of life. Ongoing pain may lead to headaches, neck stiffness, reduced arm movement, and difficulty with overhead tasks. This can impact work performance, sleep quality, and confidence in physical activities. Early intervention with physiotherapy forms an important part of managing upper back pain alongside other health care.
Upper back pain arises from many different causes, and each person presents with unique symptoms and contributing factors. A thorough physiotherapy assessment examines your thoracic spine, shoulder blades, ribs, muscles, and posture, and considers your work setup, daily habits, and activity levels. Your physiotherapist then develops a management plan that matches your goals, supports your function, and aims to reduce the risk of future issues.
Conditions we can help you with
Thoracic spine pain and stiffness
Muscle strain between the shoulder blades
Postural upper back pain from desk work
Rib joint dysfunction and costochondritis
Thoracic facet joint irritation
Upper crossed syndrome and rounded shoulders
Muscle spasm in the upper back
Referred pain from the neck to upper back
Upper back pain related to scoliosis
Sports related upper back injuries
Upper back pain during pregnancy
Post surgical upper back rehabilitation (with medical clearance)
Upper back pain associated with breathing pattern disorders
Common symptoms of upper back pain
Common symptoms associated with upper back pain include:
Pain between the shoulder blades
Burning or aching sensation in the thoracic spine
Muscle tightness across the upper back
Sharp pain with deep breathing or twisting
Stiffness after sitting for long periods
Pain that spreads to the neck or shoulders
Difficulty maintaining upright posture
Reduced ability to reach overhead
Headaches originating from the upper back
Tenderness when pressing on the upper back
If you are experiencing sudden changes in leg strength, sensation, or bladder and bowel control, please call 000 immediately.
Our Core values
Leaders in Our Field
All of our health practitioners undertake regular seminars, courses, and lectures to remain at the forefront of new technologies, principals, and therapy techniques which emerge in our field of practice.
Professionalism
Teamwork
Dedication to Learning
1. Lifetime learning
2. Learning new ideas to better ourselves
3. Being resourceful through seeking answers and solutions to challenges and complex cases
Excellence
The Physico City difference
Experience
We have been practicing in the Sydney CBD for over 15 years and have the experience and professionalism to cater to your injury. With a number of Physiotherapists from various backgrounds and specialties we can find your solution. This is our passion and we love the challenge!
Results
Our clients create meaningful changes in their lives, feel happier being pain free and being able to participate in activities again. We teach you how to manage your injury so you can perform at your best.
Value
Access
Open 6 days a week from 8am- 6:30pm. We are located next to Gadigal Station on Bathurst Street.
Testimonials
“I have found PhysiCo City to be very professional, pragmatic and friendly. They got to the root of the issue early on, and I was given helpful advice for my rehabiliation journey which wasnt too onerous. I highly recommend Aditi and the team there.”
As a Bupa member, the claiming process was simple—I just needed to show my membership card. Overall, a smooth and positive experience.
Award Winning Care & Service
#1 The Quality Business Awards 2025
Best Physiotherapy Clinic in NSW for 2024
#4 Sydney's Best Physiotherapist
Excellence in Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Achievement
Excellence in Allied Health Practice
FAQs
How does physiotherapy help upper back pain?
Physiotherapy assesses your thoracic spine, shoulder blades, ribs, and posture, then uses manual therapy and specific exercises to support better function. Treatment often includes releasing tight muscles, strengthening weak upper back muscles, and correcting postural imbalances. Education about workstation ergonomics and movement patterns helps you manage symptoms more effectively.
What exercises help upper back pain?
Exercises for upper back pain typically include thoracic spine mobility work, shoulder blade strengthening exercises, and chest stretches. Common exercises include thoracic extensions over a foam roller, rows, scapular retractions, and wall angels.
Your Sydney physiotherapist will select exercises that match your specific condition and current strength levels, then progress them as your function improves.
Can poor posture cause upper back pain?
Poor posture, particularly forward head posture and rounded shoulders, can contribute to upper back pain. This position places extra load on the thoracic spine and upper back muscles, leading to muscle fatigue, joint stiffness, and pain between the shoulder blades.
Physiotherapy addresses postural habits through strengthening, stretching, and education about optimal sitting and standing positions.
How long does upper back pain take to improve with physiotherapy?
Recovery time varies depending on the cause of your pain, how long you have had symptoms, and contributing factors like work demands and posture.
Some acute upper back strains may improve within a few weeks with appropriate treatment and exercises, while chronic postural pain may require several weeks to months of consistent exercise and habit changes. Your physiotherapist will discuss expected timeframes after your initial assessment.
Should I use heat or ice for upper back pain?
Heat often helps with muscle tension and stiffness in the upper back by increasing blood flow and relaxing tight muscles. Ice may be more appropriate for acute injuries or inflammation. Your Sydney physiotherapist will advise on the most suitable option based on your specific condition and symptoms.
Can upper back pain cause headaches?
Upper back pain can contribute to tension headaches, particularly when combined with neck stiffness and poor posture.
Muscle tension and joint dysfunction in the upper thoracic spine can refer pain to the head and neck region. Physiotherapy treatment that addresses upper back and neck function may help reduce associated headaches.
Is upper back pain related to breathing problems?
Upper back pain can sometimes relate to breathing patterns, particularly if rib joints are involved. Shallow chest breathing and poor breathing mechanics can increase upper back muscle tension.
Some people also experience sharp pain with deep breathing when rib joints are irritated. Physiotherapy can assess breathing patterns and rib joint function as part of upper back pain management.
What is the best sleeping position for upper back pain?
Sleeping on your back with a supportive pillow or on your side with a pillow between your knees often works well for upper back pain. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this position can increase thoracic spine rotation and strain. Your physiotherapist can provide specific advice based on your symptoms and sleeping habits.
Can stress cause upper back pain?
Stress can contribute to upper back pain by increasing muscle tension, particularly in the shoulders and upper back region.
Many people hold stress in their shoulders, leading to elevated and tight muscles that strain the upper back. Physiotherapy can address muscle tension through manual therapy and exercises, while also discussing stress management strategies.
Covered by Health Insurance
Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with a Sydney physiotherapist to assess your back, discuss your goals, and create a personalised management plan.
On the spot Medicare & private health insurance rebates available
Highly experienced team available 6 days a week
Located in Sydney CBD, next to the Gadigal Metro Station.
