Scapular pain, the discomfort associated with the shoulder blade, affects a significant portion of the population. According to a study undertaken by CHA University, shoulder pain, which often includes the scapula, has a prevalence rate of up to 67% among office workers. This triangular-shaped bone plays a crucial role in connecting the arm to the torso, and its well-being is essential for daily function. While strenuous physical activity is a leading contributor to scapular pain, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that conditions like arthritis are also common culprits. Moreover, incorrect sleeping positions can exacerbate the issue, as highlighted by the Cleveland Clinic . If you're experiencing persistent discomfort in this area, it's vital to consult a healthcare provider to explore the causes of scapular pain and receive tailored treatment.
Occasional scapula pain is to be expected due to the amount of muscle usage in this area of the body. However, if the pain becomes persistent or severe, a trip to the doctor is advisable. Sometimes, changing sleeping positions can help to alleviate the pain. Doctors typically suggest sleeping on the back as much as possible. If this is too difficult, using a high-quality pillow and avoiding sleeping in one position for too long at a time can be quite beneficial.
Arthritis is not a common cause of shoulder blade pain, but it has been reported. In arthritic conditions, especially in osteoarthritis, the surrounding joints become damaged. This can lead to a significant amount of pain and inflammation. Doctors will often prescribe medication to help relieve these symptoms, with cortisone injections being a popular treatment option.
If the scapula pain does not restrict itself to the shoulder area but instead travels down the arm, a compressed, or pinched, nerve may be suspected. A pinched nerve in the neck region of the spine is a common cause of shoulder blade pain. Various treatment options are available for this type of injury, including medications, massage therapy, and in some situations, surgical intervention.
One of the most common sources of scapula pain is a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles that work together to support and stabilize the joint found in the shoulder. When one or more of these muscles become damages, the pain frequently manifests itself as scapula pain. This type of injury is most common among athletes who use their shoulder muscles repetitively. If left untreated, this type of injury can lead to permanent damage.
Treatment for a rotator cuff injury is a bit different from treatment options involving other types of scapula pain. In some cases, this type of injury can be treated at home with ice therapy, rest, and medications. However, surgery is frequently necessary to repair muscle damage so that healing will occur, hopefully without any permanent loss of function.