A burning pain between the shoulder blades often referred to as interscapular pain, is a regular occurrence. You may be asking why am I having pain across my shoulder blades. In most cases, this discomfort is caused by muscle strain as a consequence of
poor posture or sitting and standing in an uncomfortable position for a long period of time. For example, a day spent sitting hunched over a computer may result in neck or upper back pain or sharp stabbing pain in shoulder blade. However, because of its location in the back, shoulder blade discomfort may not always be caused by a tendon, joint, muscle, or bone injury. Interscapular pain can sometimes be the sign of something more serious, such as a
heart attack or gallbladder disease. In this article, we address some of the more common reasons for upper back pain. Furthermore, we discuss possible home therapies to help you get rid of your suffering and when it is time to see your physician for professional medical advice.Why Does It Hurt Between My Shoulder Blades?
Why does it hurt between my shoulder blades?
The Muscle That Causes Burning Shoulder Pain
The rhomboids job is to adduct (move toward the midline) and elevate the scapula as well as stabilize it in the retracted position. They are active in both the forward and backward arm swings when walking and if the rhomboids have trigger points you will experience shoulder blade pain.
Symptoms of Rhomboid Trigger Points
If you do have rhomboid trigger points, symptoms include superficial aching shoulder pain at rest that doesn’t seem to get worse with any sort of movement. The rhomboid muscle causes referred pain into the shoulder blade. You won’t feel too much pain in the actual shoulder joint.
What Causes Pain Between the Shoulder Blades?
You can get trigger points in the rhomboids by being in a sustained stretch position, the round-shouldered posture, which is caused by tight pectoralis muscles. You
If you hear snapping and crunching noises during the movement of the scapula, it may be because of trigger points in the interscapular area.
How Can I Fix My Shoulder Blade Pain?
It is imperative to fix a round-shouldered posture to avoid severe shoulder pain. You must elongate the pectoralis muscles and also strengthen the rhomboids and trapezius to fix your poor posture.
The use of a lumbar pillow can help correct the round-shouldered posture as well. You will want to avoid any chair that pushes the shoulders forward. Also, set a timer so that you get up from your chair every 20-30 minutes to get the blood pumping back into the muscles.
To release the trigger points in the rhomboids, you can use a tennis or lacrosse ball placed on the floor. (shown in the video below). The pressure is centered on a tender spot until the tenderness dissipates, which could be up to a minute. When you get up, you should definitely notice your upper back pain has lessened.
I am including a rhomboid stretch video in this post. This should only be used when your rhomboids hurt from being in a shortened position such as lying on one side too long.
Alternative Reasons for Intrascapular
Pain
- Herniated or Bulging Disc
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Shingles
- Acid Reflux
- Nerve Compression
- Gall Bladder Infection
- Heart Attack
- Thoracic Aorta Rupture
- Pulmonary Embolism
- Shoulder Joint Bone Spurs
When To See Your Family Physician
As you can see from our list above, some of the reasons for shoulder pain may be serious, even deadly in certain situations. If severe pain persists and interferes with your mobility or regular activities, talk to your doctor about it.
If you experience any of the following symptoms along with a burning sensation between shoulder blades, you should visit a doctor right away.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Fever
- Swelling or redness of the legs and feet
- Coughing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Impaired vision
- Paralysis
- Loss of consciousness
- Trouble speaking
Your doctor can assist you in determining the source of your shoulder blade discomfort and help you to discover the finest treatment alternatives. Massage, physical therapy, surgery, or medication may be given in some circumstances. Please schedule an appointment with us at Body Ache Escape Massage Center before going to the physical therapist. Sometimes all it takes is one massage treatment for the interscapular pain to disappear. Schedule online or call us for your appointment! 614-604-6358
Some other articles about shoulder and back pain.
Sharp Pain in Your Shoulder Muscles
Shoulders Hurt When Typing
Back of Your Shoulders Hurt
Stabbing Mid Back Pain
Burning Upper Back Pain
How To Fix Muscular Chest Pain
Fix Pain In The Shoulder Joint
Trapezius Pain