pulled muscle in mid back?

Our user asked: "Hi! I seemed to have pulled a muscle mid back. It is below my shoulderblade between my spine and my side, but I definitely am aware of the pulled muscle wrapping around my ribs (left side). It gets very stiff during the night, while sitting without support for long periods of time, and is very difficult to stretch! It happened after moving a mattress after just waking up...felt fine, and then moved really quickly and it spasmed. That was 10 days ago. It has felt better some days, and others it is more stiff. Any recommendations on treating it? Stretches I might be able to do? Strengthening? Thanks!"

Ask a PT Response: "From what you described, there could be a variety of muscles involved ie. latissimus dorsi muscle, serratus posterior muscle, external intercostal muscles, etc. Without physically examining you I would be unable to determine which muscle(s) is involved. For my patients that have similar conditions such as this, I would have them utilize a hot pack and/or massage to the affected area to see if that can decrease the stiffness. If this continues to bother you, it may be a good idea to consult with a physical therapist."