What Does Pain Between the Shoulder Blades Indicate?

What Does Pain Between the Shoulder Blades Indicate?

Back and shoulder pain is a common concern. With so many different muscles, connective tissues, and nerves in the back, it is relatively easy for pain to develop in at least one of these tissues or structures. This can make it more challenging to know when medical attention is warranted. Bergen Medical Associates is a multi-specialty medical provider serving patients at locations near you in northern New Jersey. Here, we discuss pain between the shoulder blades, what can cause it, and when patients should speak with a physician about their severe or uninterrupted pain.

What Causes Pain Between the Shoulder Blades?

Most pain between the shoulder blades is minor. Stress, poor posture, or a low-quality mattress may all cause shoulder blade pain, but these conditions don’t necessarily need medical treatment. Occasionally, however, pain between the shoulder blades may indicate a more serious condition. Here is an overview of orthopedic conditions that are likely to cause shoulder blade pain:

Muscle Strain

Muscle strain is the most common cause of shoulder blade pain. It often arises from physical activity, especially after heavy lifting or twisting. Poor posture can also cause muscle strain, as can stress or sleeping in a bed that provides poor back support.

Spinal Disc Problems

Spinal discs are rubbery pads of tissue that provide cushioning and shock absorption for the spine. A slipped or herniated disc occurs when a spinal disc breaks, allowing its jelly-like core to leak and press against neighboring tissues. Similarly, degenerative disc disease occurs when spinal discs become brittle and can no longer absorb shock effectively. Both conditions cause pain.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative condition that primarily affects older adults. Caused by wear and tear, the condition is characterized by a breakdown of cartilage in skeletal joints. This causes pain and stiffness in joints like the shoulders that steadily increase over time.

Scoliosis

The spine features a gentle front-to-back S-curve. This structure allows it to support the body effectively while providing ample space for organs to function. Scoliosis occurs when part of the spine bends to the side. The curve can occur anywhere in the spine but is common between the shoulder blades. It changes how a person carries themselves, causing muscle strain and pain.

Compression Fractures

Compression fractures are broken bones in the back that occur when vertebrae cannot support the body’s weight. They can be caused by osteoporosis, or a weakening of the bone. They may also be caused by trauma or bone tumors.

When to Seek Medical Help for Shoulder Blade Pain

Minor causes of back pain don’t always need medical treatment. Rest and proper back support are often enough to help mild muscle strain heal by itself. However, if the pain is caused by a more serious condition, medical treatment is necessary. The following signs suggest that it’s time to speak with a doctor about new or persistent back pain:

• The pain appears after a serious injury
• The pain persists or comes back over time
• The pain gets worse instead of healing
• The pain travels or shoots into a shoulder, arm, or leg
• The pain is accompanied by symptoms in other parts of the body
• The pain is accompanied by loss of function or reduced range of motion
• The pain makes it difficult to complete normal activities
• The pain is severe

It is usually better to speak with a doctor than not. If the pain is minor, then a medical diagnosis can confirm that the patient has nothing to worry about. If the pain is serious, then starting treatment sooner often leads to better outcomes than delaying care.

How to Prevent Pain Between the Shoulder Blades

Not all causes of pain between the shoulder blades can be prevented. In some cases, however, patients can avoid or reduce their discomfort with the following strategies:

• Maintaining good upper body posture
• Performing upper body exercises regularly
• Following proper technique when lifting heavy items
• Stretching properly before and after physical activity
• Improving back support when sitting or sleeping
• Healthy weight management

In the case of a serious back or shoulder condition, medical treatment is the only way to prevent or reduce pain. Treatments for pain between the shoulder blades depend on the cause and can range from physical therapy or injections to corrective surgery.

Find Shoulder Blade Pain Treatment Near You in New Jersey

If you are struggling with severe or persistent shoulder blade pain, do not delay care. Look for a medical professional with the experience to help you find lasting relief. Bergen Medical Associates is led by board-certified physicians who provide comprehensive care to patients across northern New Jersey. We devote personalized attention to ensure that each patient receives the care they need.

Bergen Medical Associates has locations near you in Emerson, Montvale, Northvale, Paramus, and Ridgewood, NJ. To learn more or to begin treatment, request an appointment today.