The shoulder blade, or scapula, is a connective joint responsible for providing posture to the shoulder girdle. It connects the collarbone (clavicle) to the upper arm bone (humerus). Pain in the shoulder blade can be caused by multiple reasons, which we will also discuss in this article. However, it is crucial to understand that to enhance your shoulder blade pain treatment, choosing a well-reputed physiotherapy clinic in Worli is of the utmost importance.

How is Shoulder Blade Pain Caused?

A multitude of problems, ranging from minor injuries to major health conditions, can cause pain and discomfort in the upper back and shoulder blades. Let’s explore some of the common causes of pain and discomfort in the shoulder blade.

• Nerve Compression – A compressed nerve in the neck can radiate pain to the shoulder region. Conditions like cervical radiculopathy and herniated discs can result in nerve compression. 

• Rotator Cuff issues – The Rotator cuff is a group of muscles in the shoulder. When these muscles are overused or get damaged for some reason, it can cause weakness and reduced mobility of the shoulder blades.

• Overuse – Stressing the shoulder muscle excessively can result in pain and inflammation.

• Mysofacial Pain Syndrome – Shoulder blade pain can occur due to a syndrome named Mysofacial pain syndrome, which is a condition related to the musculoskeletal system.   

• Peptic Ulcer – It is a misconception that shoulder blade issues are only related to musculoskeletal problems. While this is a primary cause, other conditions, such as a peptic ulcer can also lead to shoulder and back pain. If left untreated, a peptic ulcer can perforate, damaging the stomach walls and affecting the diaphragm, which may result in referred pain to the shoulder and back.

What are the Treatment Options Available for Shoulder Blade Pain?

The treatment required to treat your shoulder blade pain depends on the underlying cause of the pain and the severity of it. From home remedies to physiotherapy treatment, the options are many. Your doctor will be able to suggest the right treatment option after a thorough analysis of your condition. Some of the treatment options include:

1. Adopt home remedies, such as cold and hot therapy and gentle stretching, and avoid any strenuous activity that might put pressure on the shoulder blade.
2. Your doctor might suggest over-the-counter painkillers like NSAIDs to manage the pain.
3. Massage therapy with a balm or warm oil can help in reducing the inflammation and relax the shoulder muscles.
4. In severe cases where the pain becomes unbearable and the patient wants immediate relief, corticosteroid injections might be given.

FAQs

Q1. Can poor posture cause shoulder blade pain?

Yes, posture plays a huge role in shoulder blade pain. Slouching or sitting for long hours can cause pain in the back and shoulders.

Q2. What exercises can be done to relieve shoulder blade pain?

You can do exercises like shoulder rolls, upper back stretches, cross arm stretches, neck stretches, child’s pose, and arm circles to reduce shoulder blade pain.

Q3. Can sleeping position cause pain in the shoulder blade?

Yes, sleeping in poor postures and on uncomfortable mattresses and pillows can result in back, neck, and shoulder pain.