Shoulder blade pain can be a debilitating experience. Pain around the shoulder blades makes everyday tasks difficult, whether a sharp, stabbing sensation or a dull ache. Understanding the causes of shoulder blade pain and knowing how to find relief is essential for managing the discomfort and improving your overall quality of life.
In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of shoulder blade pain, possible treatment options, and how to address the issue with the help of a pain & spine specialist in Maryland. If you’re seeking professional guidance, the Capital Interventional Pain & Spine Center is here to help with personalized treatments for shoulder blade pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
What Is Shoulder Blade Pain?
Common symptoms of shoulder blade pain include:
- Severe pain in the upper back or around the shoulder blades.
- Sharp, stabbing pain when moving the arm or torso.
- Tension or tightness around shoulders.
- Pain that worsens with specific movements or activities.
Common Causes
Below are some of the most common causes:
1. Muscle Strain or Overuse
One of the most frequent causes of shoulder blade pain is muscle strain or overuse. Poor posture, repetitive movements, or sudden increases in physical movement can strain the upper back and shoulders. This pain can be aggravated by lifting heavy objects, carrying bags, or even sitting for long periods with poor posture.
How Alcohol Affects the Body's Healing Process
Alcohol isn’t just a concern for people with arthritis; its impact on the body’s ability to heal from injury or surgery is also worth noting. If you have joint pain that is being treated through surgical intervention or physical therapy, alcohol can interfere with the healing process.
What you can do:
- Practice keeping your shoulders back and your head aligned with your spine.
2. Poor Posture
Chronic poor posture can lead to tightness and discomfort in the muscles around the shoulder blades. Sitting hunched over, slouching, or constantly looking down at your phone or computer can cause stress in the upper back, leading to pain.
3. Pinched Nerve
If there is a pinched nerve in the neck region, it can lead to pain in the shoulder blade area. Conditions like a herniated disc can pressure the nerves that extend from the neck to the shoulder blades. This can lead to irritating sensations in the shoulder and upper back. If you experience Radiating pain from the neck or upper back to the shoulder blade, it’s important to consult a pain & spine specialist:
4. Shoulder Injuries
Injuries to the shoulder joint, such as rotator cuff tears, impingement, or dislocations, can also cause pain that radiates around the shoulder blades.
What you can do:
- Avoid activities that aggravate the shoulder injury.
- Use ice or heat therapy.
5. Gallbladder Problems
Gallbladder issues, such as gallstones, can cause referred pain in the right shoulder blade area. If you experience pain in the shoulder blade along with digestive issues or nausea, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
What you can do:
- Seek medical attention if you suspect your shoulder blade pain may be related to an underlying health condition like gallbladder disease.
Treatment Options for Shoulder Blade Pain
Treatment for shoulder blade pain depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatments that can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
If muscle strain or overuse is causing your pain, it is essential to take a break from physical activities and allow the muscles to heal. Modify your daily routine to avoid movements aggravating the pain, and focus on rest.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be incredibly effective for strengthening the muscles around the shoulder blades and improving posture. A pain & spine specialist can recommend exercises tailored to your condition to help relieve pain and improve mobility.
3. Heat and Cold Therapy
Cold packs are particularly useful for reducing swelling, while heat therapy can soothe tight muscles and improve circulation. (NCBI)
4. Medications
Some over-the-counter pain medications can help manage mild to moderate shoulder blade pain. If the pain is severe, a Double Board-certified Physician may prescribe stronger medications or recommend injections to target pain at its source.
5. Injections
For chronic shoulder blade pain caused by issues like a herniated disc or arthritis, injections can reduce inflammation and pain. These injections are often used when other treatments have not been effective.
6. Surgical Intervention
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying cause of shoulder blade pain, such as a rotator cuff tear, herniated disc, or spinal stenosis. Surgical options are typically considered when non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve been experiencing shoulder blade pain for an extended period or if the pain is severe, it’s time to seek professional help. If the pain is accompanied by symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
At Capital Interventional Pain & Spine Center, our team of Physicians is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for musculoskeletal pain. Whether your shoulder blade pain is due to a muscle strain, nerve tissue, or underlying health condition, we are here to help you find lasting relief.
Conclusion
Shoulder blade pain can be caused by anything. Understanding the cause of your pain is the first step in finding relief.
If you’re struggling with shoulder blade pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pain center near you or consult with us for expert care.
Visit our website for more information about treatments for shoulder blade pain and other musculoskeletal issues, or contact us to schedule an appointment.
FAQS
1. How to relieve upper back pain between shoulder blades?
Stretch regularly, improve posture, apply heat/ice therapy, and consult a pain & spine specialist if pain persists.
2. How to relieve shoulder blade pain?
Use heat packs, gentle stretches, and massage therapy, and avoid activities that strain the area.
3. When should I worry about upper back pain between shoulder blades?
When there is chronic pain along with chest pain, shortness of breath, or numbness.
4. What causes shoulder pain when raising the arm?
Common causes include rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, frozen shoulder, or arthritis.