Common Shoulder Blade Problems and How to Address Them

Many people experience discomfort and a sense of their shoulder blade feeling out of place, particularly when they move it. This article explores several common issues that might be causing your shoulder blade to feel this way, and offers guidance on how to address these problems.

Understanding the Symptoms

If you're experiencing pain and a sensation that your shoulder blade is out of place, it's important to understand that this discomfort can arise from various sources. Some common issues include:

Muscle Strain

A muscle strain around the shoulder blade may occur due to overuse or injury. This can cause pain and discomfort, especially during movement. If you've been engaging in activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements, it's possible this is the source of your pain.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis involves the inflammation of tendons near the shoulder, which can result in pain and restricted movement. This condition often worsens with activities that involve shoulder use.

Shoulder Impingement

This occurs when the shoulder tendons are compressed during movement, leading to pain and limited motion. It's a common issue in individuals who engage in overhead activities, such as weightlifting or swimming.

Scapular Dyskinesis

Scapular dyskinesis refers to an abnormal movement of the shoulder blade, which can result from muscle imbalances or injury. This condition can affect your ability to move your shoulder smoothly and comfortably.

Nerve Issues

Conditions such as a pinched nerve in the neck can lead to referred pain in the shoulder area. This can cause pain and discomfort that may be felt from different angles, including the back of your shoulder blade.

Injury or Dislocation

Trauma to the shoulder region can result in dislocation or other injuries that affect the shoulder blade. This might happen in accidents or during strenuous physical activities.

Seeking Professional Advice

Given the range of potential causes for shoulder blade pain and discomfort, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Here are some steps you can take:

Initial Consultation

First, see your primary healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can assess your symptoms and provide a preliminary diagnosis. Depending on the severity and nature of your condition, they may recommend you to a specialist for a more comprehensive evaluation.

Specialist Referrals

If necessary, your doctor might refer you to an orthopedist or a physiotherapist for further treatment. Orthopedists specialize in musculoskeletal issues and can diagnose and treat conditions like rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocations, and arthritis. Physiotherapists can help strengthen and improve the function of the shoulder muscles.

Chiropractic Care

While chiropractic care can be beneficial for spinal issues, it's not typically recommended for shoulder blade pain. Chiropractors are primarily trained in spinal manipulation and may not have the expertise to address shoulder blade issues effectively. If you have a torn rotator cuff or suspect a subluxation, it's safer to see an orthopedist for proper treatment.

At-Home Remedies

While it's essential to seek professional advice, you can also try some at-home remedies to alleviate your discomfort in the short term:

Mobility Exercises

Certain exercises can help improve the range of motion in your shoulder. Try performing theshoulder spectacular exerciserepeatedly. This series of motions can help loosen the shoulder joint and reduce pain.

Rest and Ice

Resting the affected shoulder and using ice packs can help reduce inflammation and provide relief. Apply ice to the shoulder blade area for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

Conclusion

Shoulder blade pain and a feeling of the shoulder blade being out of place can be caused by a variety of issues. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. You can also try some at-home remedies to alleviate your discomfort. Remember, self-diagnosis can be dangerous, and it's always best to seek medical advice.

Key Takeaways:

Muscle strain, tendonitis, shoulder impingement, scapular dyskinesis, nerve issues, and injury are common causes of shoulder blade pain. Seek professional advice from a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Chiropractic care is not recommended for shoulder blade issues; see an orthopedist instead for torn rotator cuffs or suspected subluxations. At-home remedies such as mobility exercises and rest with ice can provide temporary relief.