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Back pain between the shoulder blades is one of the most common complaints heard in medical offices. It is a symptom of many conditions, including poor posture, muscle strain, and even serious medical conditions like a herniated disc. Knowing the cause of your pain can help you find the best treatment for your condition. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments for back pain between the shoulder blades.
What Causes Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades?
Back pain between the shoulder blades can be caused by a number of different conditions. Poor posture, muscle strain, and even medical conditions can be the underlying cause of the pain.
Poor Posture
Poor posture is one of the most common causes of back pain between the shoulder blades. Sitting for long periods of time in an unnatural position, such as slouching or hunching over a computer, can cause the muscles in the back and shoulders to become strained and tight. This can lead to pain in the area between the shoulder blades.
Muscle Strain
Muscle strain is another common cause of back pain between the shoulder blades. Overuse of the muscles in the back and shoulders can cause them to become tight and strained, leading to pain in the area. This can be caused by activities such as lifting heavy objects, working out, or even playing sports.
Medical Conditions
In some cases, back pain between the shoulder blades can be caused by a medical condition. Some of the more serious conditions that can cause back pain in this area include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. If you experience back pain between the shoulder blades and the pain does not go away with rest or home remedies, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Symptoms of Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades
The symptoms of back pain between the shoulder blades can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some of the most common symptoms include:
- Aching or burning pain in the area between the shoulder blades
- Pain that radiates down the arms or up the neck
- Muscle spasms or tightness in the area
- Difficulty moving the arms or shoulders
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Treatments for Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades
The treatment for back pain between the shoulder blades will depend on the underlying cause. Some of the most common treatments include:
Rest and Ice/Heat Therapy
Rest and ice/heat therapy are two of the most common treatments for back pain between the shoulder blades. Resting the area can help to reduce inflammation and pain, while applying heat or ice can help to reduce muscle spasms and tension.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for back pain between the shoulder blades. A physical therapist can help to identify the underlying cause of the pain and develop a treatment plan to address it. This may include exercises to strengthen the muscles in the back and shoulders, stretching, and other forms of therapy.
Medication
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help relieve the pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to reduce inflammation and pain. In more serious cases, stronger medications may be prescribed.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat back pain between the shoulder blades. This is typically only recommended in cases where other treatments have failed to provide relief.
Conclusion
Back pain between the shoulder blades can be caused by a number of different conditions, including poor posture, muscle strain, and medical conditions. It is important to seek medical attention if the pain does not go away with rest or home remedies. Treatment options for back pain between the shoulder blades include rest and ice/heat therapy, physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery.
