Thoracic spine pain

**Definition:** This is a group of conditions characterised by pain perceived anywhere in the region bounded superiorly by a transverse line through the tip of the spinous process of T1, inferiorly by a transverse line through the tip of the spinous process of T12, and laterally by vertical lines tangential to the most lateral margins of the erector spinae muscles.

**Long definition:** This area can be divided into upper, middle and lower thirds. Pain felt lateral to this area is defined as posterior chest wall pain, and does not constitute thoracic spinal pain.

**Exclusions:** - Chronic primary thoracic pain - Chronic secondary musculoskeletal pain - Chronic neuropathic pain