Shoulder Blade Pain

Question

Dear TAI Experts:

I have had pain in my right shoulder blade for a few months now. Since the initial injury (lifting a heavy box)it has extended down my right arm and into my hand. It feels like it may be a pinched nerve. The pain fluctuates between tingling and sharp pain. My doctor has prescribed a muscle relaxer, but that does not seem to be helping. Any ideas?

Answer

This is not an uncommon injury and can be anything from a painfully strained muscle to an irritated neck joint or a herniated disc in your neck or mid back. These and a few other conditions all present in similar ways. Unfortunately I’m somewhat limited in my ability to help you without doing an evaluation. A physical therapist skilled in the treatment of the shoulder, neck, and mid back would likely be able to help you out. Depending on what is determined to be the cause of the symptoms, treatment may include joint mobilizations, traction, shoulder blade exercises, soft tissue work, and home exercise. It is not surprising that the muscle relaxer has not helped. Don’t give up on it, there are likely things that can be done.

David Deppeler, PT, OCS, COMT, FAAOMPT