🟢 Accepting New Patients ⭐ 5.0 Google Rating 📍 601 Hamburg Tpke, Suite 103, Wayne, NJ 📞 (973) 689-7123
Physical therapist performing thoracic spine mobilization on patient during back pain treatment in Wayne NJ.

Mid-Back Pain Physical Therapy in Wayne, NJ

Relieve Stiffness, Pain, and Posture Issues.

Mid-back stiffness and pain can limit breathing and daily movement. Whether caused by Scoliosis, rib dysfunction, or 'Tech Neck,' our specialized care targets the root mechanical cause.

We focus on postural correction, mobility restoration, and relieving the muscular imbalances that cause dysfunction. Led by Dr. Rob Letizia, Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist, our 1-on-1 care helps you stand taller and breathe easier.

Last Medically Reviewed: February 2026 by Dr. Rob Letizia, DPT

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25+
Years Experience
Manual
Therapy Specialist
1-on-1
Doctor Care Only
5.0 ★
Google Rating

Is This You?

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your thoracic spine may be the cause:

  • ❌ Sharp, stabbing pain between the shoulder blades
  • ❌ One shoulder or hip looks higher than the other (Scoliosis)
  • ❌ Constant stiffness or 'knot' in the upper back
  • ❌ Pain radiating around the rib cage to the chest
  • ❌ Inability to sit up straight without fatigue

What is Thoracic Spine Therapy?

Thoracic Spine Rehabilitation focuses on the 12 vertebrae of the mid-back and the rib cage. This area is prone to stiffness from scoliosis and sedentary lifestyles. Our therapy restores rotation and extension, unlocking the stiff joints that cause pain, breathing difficulty, and poor posture.

At Spectrum Therapeutics, we target the joint restrictions manually to provide immediate relief.

Conditions We Treat

Rib Dysfunction

When a rib joint gets 'stuck' at the spine, it causes sharp breath-taking pain. We use manual mobilization to release it immediately.

Scoliosis Pain

We treat the muscle imbalances and stiffness associated with curvature to reduce pain and improve function.

Postural Kyphosis

Excessive rounding of the upper back (Hunchback). We restore spinal extension and strengthen scapular muscles to straighten you up.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Compression of nerves/vessels between the neck and shoulder. We release tight muscles to stop numbness in the arm/hand.

Costochondritis

Inflammation of the rib cartilage in the front chest. Treating the stiffness in the back often relieves the pain in the front.

Disc Herniation

Less common in the mid-back, but very painful. We use traction and extension protocols to heal the disc without surgery.

Why Choose Physical Therapy First?

Mid-back pain is often mechanical, meaning pills can't fix it.

VS. Chiropractic

Adjustments feel good temporarily, but the spine will stiffen up again without stabilization. We combine mobilization (like chiro) with strengthening to make the results permanent.

VS. Injections

Trigger point injections mask pain but don't restore movement. If your ribs are stiff, no amount of medication will make them move correctly. PT fixes the motion.

VS. Massage

Massage relaxes muscles, but often the muscles are tight because they are protecting an unstable or stiff joint. We treat the joint AND the muscle for complete relief.

Your Path to Pain-Free Posture

01

Assessment

We analyze your spinal curves, rib mobility, and breathing mechanics.

02

Release

Hands-on mobilization to unlock stiff thoracic vertebrae and ribs.

03

Strengthen

Targeted exercises for the rhomboids and lower traps to hold posture.

04

Function

Return to sitting, lifting, and breathing without pain or fatigue.

Dr Rob Letizia physical therapist Spectrum Wayne NJ

Meet Dr. Rob Letizia, PT, DPT

Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist

Dr. Rob Letizia is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist. He specializes in treating the thoracic spine, a complex area often overlooked by general practitioners.

Qualifications:
🎓 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
🏆 Advanced Certification in Orthopedic Manual Therapy
⚕️ 25+ Years of Clinical Practice in Wayne, NJ

Thoracic pain is often complex, involving ribs, nerves, and spinal joints. You need a Manual Therapy Specialist who understands these connections.

Book with Dr. Rob →

✓ Insurance We Accept

• Medicare• BCBS • Horizon BCBS• Aetna • Cigna• United Healthcare • Oxford• Humana • Workers' Comp• Auto (PIP)

Don't see yours? Call — we verify benefits free.

🕐 Hours

Monday8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Wednesday8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday8:30 AM – 2:00 PM

See Our Approach in Action

Thoracic Spine Rehabilitation — Wayne, NJ

What Our Patients Say

Common Questions About Mid-Back Therapy

Why do I have sharp pain between my shoulder blades?

This is often caused by rib dysfunction or thoracic facet joint stiffness. If a rib joint gets 'stuck' at the spine, it causes sharp, stabbing pain that worsens when you take a deep breath. Physical therapy can unlock these joints quickly.

Can physical therapy help adults with Scoliosis?

Yes. While we cannot reverse the curve in adults, manual therapy is highly effective at mobilizing the stiff segments of the curve and strengthening the weak side. This dramatically reduces pain, improves posture, and prevents the curve from worsening.

Can physical therapy fix poor posture (Kyphosis)?

Yes. 'Tech Neck' and hunching (Kyphosis) are caused by stiff thoracic joints and weak upper back muscles. Our manual therapy restores spine extension, and specific exercises strengthen the muscles that hold you upright naturally.

What causes pain that wraps around my ribs?

Pain radiating from the back around the ribs is often Costochondritis or Intercostal Neuralgia. We treat the connection where the rib meets the spine to relieve the tension on the nerve and cartilage.

PT vs. Chiropractor: What's better for mid-back pain?

Both can help, but the approach is different. Chiropractors focus on adjustments for temporary relief. Physical Therapy focuses on long-term correction. We not only mobilize the joints (like a chiropractor) but also strengthen the postural muscles to prevent the stiffness from returning.

Why does it hurt when I take a deep breath?

This is a hallmark sign of a rib dysfunction or facet joint lock in the thoracic spine. When the joint doesn't move, the rib cannot expand, causing sharp pain. Manual therapy is highly effective for this.

How long does it take to fix thoracic pain?

Most patients feel relief within 2-3 sessions. Full recovery typically takes 4-8 weeks. Postural correction takes time as we have to rebuild muscle endurance to hold you upright.

Do I need a referral?

No. New Jersey is a Direct Access state. You can schedule directly with Dr. Rob immediately without waiting for a physician's prescription.

Is traction used for thoracic pain?

Sometimes, but manual mobilization is more common for the thoracic spine. We use hands-on techniques to gently push the stiff vertebrae into extension, relieving the pressure.

Does insurance cover this?

Yes. We accept Medicare, BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, United, and most major plans. We will verify your exact coverage for you before you arrive.

What is the best sleeping position for mid-back pain?

Sleeping on your back with a low pillow is best to prevent hunching. If you sleep on your side, hug a pillow to keep your shoulders from rounding forward, which stresses the mid-back.

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Physical therapist performing thoracic spine mobilization on patient during back pain treatment in Wayne NJ.

Ready to Fix Your Mid-Back Pain?

Don't let stiffness control your life. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Rob today and start your path to lasting relief.

✓ Same-Day Appointments Available
✓ No Referrals Needed
✓ Most Insurance Accepted

📞 (973) 689-7123

📧 spectrum@spectrumtherapynj.com
📍 601 Hamburg Turnpike, Suite 103, Wayne, NJ 07470

Book Your Appointment Online →

📍 Visit Our Wayne, NJ Clinic

Thoracic Therapy Serving Wayne & Northern New Jersey

Passaic County

Wayne • Totowa • Little Falls • Woodland Park • Paterson • Pompton Lakes • Haledon • North Haledon • Hawthorne • Clifton

Morris County

Lincoln Park • Montville • Pequannock • Butler • Kinnelon • Riverdale • Boonton • Parsippany

Bergen County

Fairfield • Fair Lawn • Glen Rock • Ridgewood • Wyckoff • Franklin Lakes • Oakland

Can't find your town? If you're in Northern NJ and struggling with mid-back pain, we can help. Call (973) 689-7123

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider for your specific condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 immediately.

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