4 Common Causes of Pain Under Your Shoulder Blade

Pain under your shoulder blade can be a bothersome and confusing experience. It might disrupt daily activities or simply cause discomfort. Understanding the possible causes can help you address this issue more effectively.

There are different reasons why this pain might occur. It’s helpful to recognize what might be causing it to take suitable action. From muscle strain to underlying health conditions, being informed is key.

1) Muscle strain

Muscle strain is a common cause of pain under your shoulder blade. It happens when you overuse or overstretch the muscles around your shoulder.

This can occur from activities like lifting heavy objects, playing sports, or even sitting in awkward positions for too long. Sudden movements or accidents can also lead to muscle strain.

You might feel sharp, stabbing pain or a dull ache. The affected area could be tender to the touch and may worsen when you move your shoulder or arm. Sometimes, the pain spreads to other parts of your back or neck.

Resting and avoiding activities that cause discomfort can help. Applying ice to the area or taking over-the-counter pain relievers may also provide relief. If the pain doesn’t improve after a few days, consider seeing a healthcare professional. They can give you advice on treatment options and exercises to prevent further strain.

2) Poor posture

Sitting or standing with bad posture can lead to pain under your shoulder blade. If you slouch or hunch your shoulders, it puts strain on your back muscles. Over time, this strain can cause discomfort in the area below your shoulder blade.

When you sit for long periods, like at a desk, your spine might not be properly aligned. This can cause pressure on certain muscles. As a result, you might feel pain or tightness under your shoulder blade.

Paying attention to your posture can help you avoid this kind of pain. Try to sit up straight, with your shoulders relaxed and your back supported. Being mindful of how you hold your body during daily activities can make a big difference in how you feel.

3) Herniated disk

A herniated disk happens when a disk in your spine ruptures or slips. This can cause pain under your shoulder blade. The pain occurs because the disk material presses on nearby nerves.

You might feel discomfort, tingling, or numbness in the area. Sometimes this pain can also spread to your arm or neck. Physical therapy and medication can help.

In some cases, you may need surgery. Early treatment can lead to better outcomes. If you have persistent pain, it is important to see a healthcare professional.

4) Skeletal issues

When experiencing pain under your shoulder blade, it might be due to skeletal issues. This can include problems with your bones or joints, such as osteoarthritis. This condition affects the cartilage in your joints, leading to pain and stiffness.

Sometimes, injuries can also cause pain under the shoulder blade. A fracture or dislocation in the shoulder area could be the culprit. These injuries often require medical attention for proper healing.

Another concern might be poor posture. Sitting or standing incorrectly can put added stress on the spine and shoulder blades. Over time, this strain can lead to discomfort or even injury.

If you suspect skeletal issues, it’s important to seek advice. A healthcare professional can examine your condition and recommend treatments that can help.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing pain under your shoulder blade, it can be quite uncomfortable. Knowing some possible reasons for this discomfort is important.

It’s a good idea to pay attention to how your shoulder feels in different activities. Noticing when the pain occurs can help you find a solution faster.

Seeking help from professionals is crucial. You are welcome to visit us at Clayton Heights 188 St Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic (Allied Physio).