The thoracic spine—also referred to as the upper back or middle back—is designed for stability to anchor the rib cage and protect vital internal organs within the chest. The cervical region of the spine is the most flexible, followed by the lumbar region.

What area is considered mid back?

The middle back refers to the area above the hips and below the ribs and, although the term thoracic back pain often is used interchangeably with middle back pain, there are notable differences between the two.

What is the upper mid back called?

The upper and middle back (called the thoracic spine) has: 12 vertebrae. These bones attach to your rib cage. They make up the longest part of your back.