What Causes Pain Between The Shoulder Blade And Spine?

 

• Upper back pain is a common issue affecting millions of individuals in the EU. Proper posture, correct lifting techniques, and regular exercise can help prevent upper back pain.
  
  
• Various factors can contribute to upper back pain, including injuries, acid reflux, stress, muscle strain, overuse, and fibromyalgia.
  
  
• Risk factors such as being overweight, smoking, and poor muscle tone can increase the likelihood of experiencing upper back pain.
  
  
• Home remedies can often effectively treat upper back pain, but if it persists, worsens, or becomes severe, it is essential to consult a doctor. Seeking medical attention is crucial if upper back pain arises after a car accident in the EU.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including back pain, are a significant health issue in Europe, affecting at least 100 million people.

Back pain can arise from various factors, including muscle strain, poor posture, and excess weight. However, a survey indicated that stress and a lack of exercise or weak muscles were the primary causes of back pain among EU residents.

The appropriate treatment and preventive measures for back pain may vary depending on its cause and factors such as age and other risk factors.

This article will discuss upper back pain, its symptoms, potential causes, and available treatment options within the EU. Additionally, we will explore lifestyle changes you can adopt to minimise the impact of back pain on your daily life.

What Is Upper Back Pain?

Upper back pain typically manifests between the shoulders and spine, though it may surface anywhere from the base of the neck to the lower rib cage.

Comparatively, lower back pain and middle back pain are more prevalent than upper back pain.

The severity of upper back pain can range from mild to severe. Although it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, in most instances, upper back pain is generally not a cause for alarm and can be effectively managed with at-home treatments.

Key Point: Understanding Rhomboid Muscle Pain

Rhomboid muscle pain is another term for upper back pain, specifically discomfort beneath the neck and between the shoulder blades and spine.

This particular form of back pain is frequently the result of overexertion of the muscles in the back, arms, and shoulders. It is a prevalent issue among individuals who engage in activities such as:

• Playing sports like tennis, baseball, or volleyball.
  
  
• Participating in golf.
  
  
• Rowing
  
  
• Carrying heavy backpacks.

What Are The Symptoms Of Upper Back Pain?

The symptoms of upper back pain can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause, and they may differ from person to person. If your symptoms are severe or worsen over time, seeking medical attention is essential.

Some common symptoms associated with upper back pain include:

• Tight or stiff back muscles.
  
  
• Throbbing pain.
  
  
• A burning sensation or sharp pain.
  
  
• A stabbing pain.
  
  
• Weakness
  
  
• Tingling
  
  
• Numbness

Key Point: Identifying Serious Symptoms Of Upper Back Pain

 

While waking up with neck or shoulder pain after a poor night's sleep may not be cause for concern, specific symptoms may indicate more serious issues. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe pain.
  
  
• Unexplained weight loss.
  
  
• Persistent pain that does not improve with rest or activity.
  
  
• Pain in your side.
  
  
• Fever
  
  
• Chest pain.
  
  
• Severe fatigue.
  
  
• Weakness in your legs.
  
  
• Pain that radiates from your chest to your back.
  
  
• Pain exacerbated by movement.
  
  
• Shortness of breath, especially when breathing deeply.

What Causes Upper Back Pain?

Upper back pain can have various underlying causes. Understanding these causes can help you take steps to prevent it. Here are some of the most common reasons for upper back pain:

Incorrect Posture

Poor posture can indeed be both a cause and a consequence of upper back pain. For instance, injuries that impact your spine, whether in the cervical (neck) or thoracic (upper back) region, can hinder your ability to maintain an upright posture. Conversely, holding incorrect sitting or standing positions can lead to improper posture and

pain.

It could be attributed to muscle strain if you find it challenging to sit or stand comfortably. For instance, prolonged periods of slouching at a desk can contribute to this muscle strain and subsequently cause discomfort and pain in the upper back.

Injury

Indeed, it is evident that injuries to the back can lead to pain. For example, if you experience an injury from a fall or a car accident, any spine fractures incurred can be a source of upper back pain.

Moreover, injuries that develop gradually, such as those stemming from repetitive heavy lifting, can contribute to chronic pain in the upper back. These injuries may not manifest immediately but can become a persistent source of discomfort as time progresses.

Improper Lifting

You've probably seen this advice: "Lift with your legs and not your back." Adhering to correct lifting techniques is crucial in preventing back pain.

When lifting objects, it's essential to:

 

• Maintain a straightened back.
  
  
• Keep your gaze directed straight ahead.
  
  
• Maintain an upright posture with your chest out and shoulders back.
  
  
• Lift gradually while simultaneously straightening your hips and knees.
  
  
• Avoid bending your back or twisting your body during the lifting process.

Individuals who regularly lift heavy objects, such as those carrying heavy grocery bags, should consistently prioritise proper lifting techniques to safeguard their back health.

Stress

Stress can lead to excessive tension, potentially causing muscle spasms and strain.

When stress is the root cause of upper back pain, it might also be accompanied by headaches, difficulty sleeping, and discomfort between the shoulder blades.

Muscle Strains:

Muscle strains can lead to severe spasms and cramps, particularly when attempting to move, making them exceedingly painful. Symptoms like limited mobility or swelling in the back could indicate a muscle strain.

Heavy Backpack Usage:

Regularly carrying heavy bags can significantly contribute to persistent back issues and pain.

The use of heavy backpacks or single-strap bags, such as messenger bags or handbags, often results in an altered posture, with individuals frequently leaning forward or sideways, leading to ongoing neck, shoulders, and back problems.

Repetitive Movements And Overuse:

Athletes are especially susceptible to back pain caused by overuse or repetitive actions.

Back pain develops from the gradual wear and tear associated with continuous activity.

Engaging in repetitive activities, like running, jumping, or throwing, can lead to injuries such as rotator cuff tears, which impact the muscles and tendons that support the shoulder joint.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears: Symptoms To Look Out For

The rotator cuff comprises muscles and tendons crucial for lifting and rotating the arms. Should you suspect a rotator cuff injury, watch out for symptoms such as:

• Trouble lifting your arms
  
  
• Pain during arm movement or when resting on them
  
  
• Weakness in the shoulder
  
  
• Restricted arm mobility
  
  
• Audible clicking or popping sounds when moving the arm

Spinal Conditions And Chronic Pain

Spinal issues like scoliosis can exert pressure on the spinal discs, leading to muscle spasms and persistent pain due to the abnormal curvature of the spine.

Back Pain And Digestive Disorders

Back pain post-meal could be linked to digestive problems such as acid reflux. Conditions like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) might cause pain that radiates between the shoulder blade and spine, known as referred pain.

Key Point: Exploring Referred Pain

Referred pain is when an injury or ailment in one part of the body causes pain in a different area. An example is feeling jaw pain during a heart attack, indicating the body's complex network of nerves and pain signals.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, also referred to as fibrositis, is a condition characterised by widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body. It may lead to sensations of overexertion or strain in the muscles, including those in the upper back, even without physical overuse.

Common Causes Of Upper Back Pain In Seniors

Upper back pain in individuals aged 60 and above can stem from various factors, including:

• Inflammatory conditions
  
  
• Arthritis
  
  
• Vertebral fractures
  
  
• Osteoporosis
  
  
• Spinal stenosis
  
  
• Cancers (for example, pancreatic cancer)
  
  
• Herniated discs

Understanding The Risk Factors For Upper Back Pain:

While avoiding upper back pain due to unforeseen accidents and injuries is impossible, certain factors can heighten the risk of encountering back problems.

Key contributors to an increased risk of back pain include:

Excess Body Weight:

Carrying additional weight stresses the muscles, bones, and tendons, making the body more prone to sustaining injuries.

Smoking Habits:

Nicotine in the bloodstream can impair the body's healing process, hindering the regeneration of spinal discs and making the back more vulnerable to pain from injuries or strain.

Participation In High-Impact Sports:

Engaging in sports with a high level of physical contact, like football or soccer, can raise the chances of sustaining injuries that lead to upper back pain.

Sedentary Lifestyle:

A lack of physical activity coupled with poor sitting habits can lead to weakened back muscles.

Weak Muscle Strength:

Insufficient strength in the back and core muscles can result in a tendency to slouch or adopt poor posture, elevating the risk of persistent back pain.

Strategies For Avoiding Pain In The Area Between Your Shoulder Blade And Spine:

To safeguard yourself against back pain and potential injuries and to sidestep the need for physical therapy, consider adopting the following practices:

• Ensure proper posture, whether standing, sitting, walking, or sleeping.
  
  
• Engage in regular physical activity.
  
  
• Keep your weight within a healthy range.
  
  
• Cease smoking.
  
  
• Steer clear of lifting overly heavy objects.
  
  
• Employ correct techniques when lifting.
  
  
• Follow a nutritious and well-balanced diet.
  
  
• Avoid remaining in one position for too long; make it a point to move around frequently.
  
  
• Work on reducing stress levels.

Managing Upper Back Pain:

Various treatments and simple at-home remedies can effectively manage upper back pain, often involving over-the-counter medications.

Should your back pain persist beyond two weeks, worsen, or start impacting your daily activities and mobility, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Possible approaches to alleviating upper back pain encompass:

• Application of heat or cold packs to the affected area.
  
  
• Over-the-counter analgesics, like ibuprofen or aspirin.
  
  
• Utilising a mattress that's medium-firm in support.
  
  
• Using orthopaedic cushions, particularly for extended periods of sitting.
  
  
• Considering a standing desk for work.
  
  
• Performing gentle stretching exercises.
  
  
• Incorporating Pilates and yoga into your routine.
  
  
• Engaging in low-impact activities such as walking.
  
  
• Undergoing physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility.

Consulting A Healthcare Professional For Upper Back Pain:

It's advisable to seek medical advice for upper back pain if you experience intense discomfort, if the pain escalates, or if over-the-counter medications fail to provide relief. Contacting your healthcare provider or a physical therapist can be crucial to recovery.

Should you experience any severe symptoms, as previously mentioned, it's essential to seek immediate medical attention to receive appropriate care and to exclude any serious underlying issues, such as cancer.

Furthermore, if you start to experience upper back pain following a car accident, it's imperative to consult with a healthcare professional. Even if you initially feel okay post-accident, persistent pain could indicate a muscle injury or inflammation. Prompt and proper medical treatment can be pivotal in preventing long-term discomfort.

If you need assistance, Mobi Doctor is just a call or click away. Don't hesitate to reach out for convenient and professional healthcare support.