Shoulder Blade Pain

Shoulder blade pain is often caused by dorsal scapular neuropathy. This is characterized by pain, numbness, or weakness in the upper back and shoulder blade region. It occurs due to compression or irritation of the dorsal scapular nerve, which supplies sensation and muscle control to that area. Symptoms typically include achiness, cramping, burning, or deep-seated painful tension in your upper back and shoulder blade that worsens with activity. Some patients experience weakness or difficulty elevating their arm or retracting their shoulder blade.

Repetitive movements, poor posture, or direct trauma to the nerve often cause this condition.

Fortunately, dorsal scapular neuropathy usually responds favorably to a combination of in-office care and home exercises. Patients should try to minimize chronic stress from forward-head postures (i.e., cell phones, laptops, etc.) and compression from purse straps, backpacks, or bras. You should also avoid prolonged overhead activity and sleeping on your stomach with your head rotated toward the affected side.