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Determining the Cause of Shoulder Blade Pain Can Be Difficult


The shoulder blade, referred to as the scapulae, consists of triangular bones on the back of the shoulders; and are attached to the top of the arm at the shoulder joint and the clavicle (at the acromioclavicular joint). As the area is surrounded by muscles, tendons and ligaments, doctors say determining the cause of shoulder blade pain can be difficult.

The Medical News Today website explains shoulder blade pain can be caused by a number of conditions including a heart attack. Other causes may be sleeping in an uncomfortable position, strain from lifting a heavy object, and physical trauma.

Examples of bone or joint problems are pain caused by a fall or accident that results in a fracture. Other bone and joint issues include degenerative conditions like arthritis, bursitis or frozen shoulders. One type of arthritis called ankylosing spondylitis primarily affects the spine and can cause pain and inflammation in the surrounding area including the shoulders.

Shoulder pain that arises beneath the bone that forms the “roof” of the shoulder (the acromion) is often referred to as shoulder impingement. Experts say the cause is often unknown and in about 50% of people, the pain gets better after around 6 months. Treatment includes pain medication, cooling the area and physical therapy.

Muscle and tendon problems causing shoulder pain include the rotator cuff, muscle strain and overuse of the area. The rotator cuff is a set of muscles that helps the arm and shoulder move and injuries are common including tears to one of the cuff tendons. Treatment includes taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or pain medications to minimize swelling and discomfort, applying ice packs and physical therapy. In some cases your doctor may recommend surgery.

Consult your healthcare provider about lingering shoulder blade pain. Also, remember shoulder pain is associated with a heart attack, so anyone experiencing shoulder pain along with shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart attack, should seek immediate medical attention.

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Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319774
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