Trigger points (muscle knots) in the erector spinae muscles, the muscular columns on either side of the spine, can be the primary cause of upper back pains. These trigger points can be caused by hunching over a keyboard or notepad. At this point, straightening the back in and of itself will not be able to fully relieve the pain. Lateral massage, targeting specific trigger points is the best way to address upper back pain resulting from a strenuous office environment.
