Pain between the shoulder blades can be uncomfortable, disturbing and also worrying. It might give a feeling of minor pain in the beginning, but continuous or severe pain in this area signals some underlying problem that require attention.
In the upper back region there are muscles, joints, nerves and also is in close association with some of the vital organs. This means that the cause of pain ranges from a simple muscle strain to serious medical conditions.
A proper understanding of what is causing the pain between the shoulder blades can assist you in seeking on time treatment and prohibit further issues.
Here are 6 Possible Causes Of Pain Between The Shoulder Blades
1. Muscle Strain Or Overuse
One of the most common cause of pain between the shoulder blades is strain in muscles or its overuse. This mostly happens because of bad posture, sitting for long hours, repetitive movements or physical exertion.
Some activities such as working for elongated period at a desk, looking down at your phone, lifting up heavy objects incorrectly or some intense workouts. These all overstress your back muscles.
Symptoms includes dull pain, stiffness or tightness that degrades with movement. The pain might show improvement with rest, mild stretching, gentle massage or heat therapy. But ignoring symptoms can cause chronic discomfort.
2. Bad Posture
Posture plays an important role in health of upper back. Slumping, rounded shoulders or forward head posture causes extra pressure on the joints and muscles in between the shoulder blades, With time, this strain can lead to inflammation, muscle imbalance and continuous pain.
People working in front of computers, driving for long hours or using mobile devices are more prone to posture based pain. Correcting posture, making use of ergonomic furniture and taking breaks on frequent basis can decrease symptoms substantially.
3. Issues Related To Cervical Or Thoracic Spine
Issues in the neck i.e cervical spine or upper back i.e thoracic spine can also lead to pain between the shoulder blades. Few issues like herniated discs, spinal arthritis or degenerative discs disease causes irritation of nearby nerves causing referred pain in the shoulder blade area.
These kind of pains might be sharp, burning or often radiates to neck or arms. Many people also experience tingling or numbness. In such kind of cases, medical evaluation is often important for determining the exact cause and right kind of treatment.
4. ShoulderJoint Issues
Problems within the shoulder joint is sometimes felt in between the shoulder blades. Conditions such as rotator cuff injuries, inflammation in the joint or shoulder impingement can cause pain that radiates towards the upper back.
This pain is sometimes aggravated by movement of arm, reaching overhead or lifting. You might also notice weakness, decreased range of motion or clicking sounds in the shoulder. On time diagnosis and physiotherapy can help in preventing damages in long term.
5. Injuries Or Trauma
A fall, any accident or a direct blow to back can cause pain between the shoulder blades. Injuries might involve muscle tears, damages of ligament, bruising of tissue or fractures. Also minor trauma can lead to lingering pain when not treated properly.
When pain appears suddenly after any accident, and is severe accompanied by swelling or difficult movement, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
6. Conditions Related To Heart Or Lungs
Even if less common, but pain between shoulder blades can be sometimes because of issues related to heart or lungs. Some of the cardiac conditions like heart disease or aortic problems, can cause referred pain to the upper back. Some of the lung related issues such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism or pleurisy also triggers discomfort in this area.
When pain is because of heart or lung problems, is often accompanies by symptoms like chest pain, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath or dizziness. These symptoms should not be ignored and it is essential to seek urgent medical care.
When ToSee A Doctor?
Occasional mild pain gets resolved with rest and changes in lifestyle, but you should also consult a healthcare professional when:
- There is severe and consistent pain
- Pain worsens over time
- It is associated with numbness, tingling or weakness
- It happened along with chest pain, breathing difficulty or weakness.
As pain between shoulder blades is sometime related to heart issues, it is vital to keep in check cardiovascualar health. When you have certain risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, history of smoking or family history of heart disease, it is critical to go for regular cardiac evaluation.
Magnet Health NY, provides wide ranging cardiology services focusing on early detection, right diagnosis and customized care. Their team of experts utilize latest diagnostic tools to assist in recognizing heart related problems before they become serious.
Conclusion
Pain between the shoulder blades might have several causes that ranges from daily posture related issues to serious medical conditions. Giving proper attention to your body, maintaining right posture, remaining active and getting on time medical advice can bring in substantial difference.
When there is persistent pain or is accompanies by other symptoms, do not delay in getting evaluated.