What causes pain in the shoulder blade crevice on the upper back?
Apr 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Jianjun
Introduction
The scapula is a triangular, flat bone located on the posterior aspect of the thoracic cage, between the second and seventh ribs. Pain in the scapula may result from factors such as cold exposure, trauma, myofasciitis, periarthritis of the shoulder, or rheumatic diseases. It is important to rest, avoid excessive physical activity and exercise, and seek timely medical attention at a hospital. Under a doctor's guidance, undergo thorough examinations to determine the exact cause and receive targeted treatment.
The scapula is a triangular flat bone located on the posterior-lateral aspect of the thoracic cage, situated between the second and seventh ribs. Pain in the scapula region may result from various causes such as cold exposure, trauma, myofascial inflammation, periarthritis of the shoulder, or rheumatic diseases.
1. Cold Exposure
Failure to keep warm may expose the back to cold and wind, potentially causing muscle contraction and tension, leading to scapular pain. It is recommended to maintain warmth, engage in moderate exercise, and apply local heat therapy or massage to help relieve symptoms.
2. Trauma
Injury may damage soft tissues in the back, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments, resulting in pain—especially around the scapula—and possibly accompanied by redness, swelling, or numbness. Within the first 24 hours after injury, cold compresses with an ice pack can help reduce pain and swelling. After 24 hours, switching to heat therapy may promote blood circulation and muscle relaxation.
3. Myofasciitis
Prolonged stretching of the back muscles without adequate rest may cause sustained muscle tension, leading to local soft tissue adhesions or aseptic inflammation, known as myofasciitis, which results in scapular pain. Stretching exercises under the guidance of a healthcare professional may help relax muscles and alleviate discomfort.
4. Periarthritis of the Shoulder (Shoulder Adhesive Capsulitis)
Lesions in the shoulder joint's soft tissues or reduced joint resilience may lead to injuries in the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and bursae, causing periarthritis of the shoulder. This condition leads to shoulder pain, and as the disease progresses, the pain may spread to the upper back and scapular regions, resulting in increased pain and restricted movement. In cases of severe pain, medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or celecoxib capsules may be taken under medical supervision to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
5. Rheumatic Diseases
Rheumatic diseases are autoimmune disorders that typically cause inflammation and swelling in multiple joints. If left untreated, the inflammation may spread to joints near the scapula in the back, causing pain, stiffness, and discomfort in the scapular area. Treatments such as heat therapy, cold therapy, massage, or acupuncture—performed under medical guidance—can improve blood circulation and alleviate pain.
In daily life, it is important to get adequate rest and avoid excessive physical activity. Individuals should seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital, undergo thorough examinations under a physician’s guidance, identify the exact underlying cause, and receive targeted treatment.
