Shoulder blade pain is a common ailment that can sometimes be difficult to diagnose. Most of the time, the discomfort is due to something relatively harmless, such as muscle tension or poor posture. Occasionally, however, pain in or between the shoulder blades can also indicate more serious conditions. Therefore, persistent or severe pain should never be ignored.
The shoulder blades, medically known as scapulae, are two triangular bones attached to the collarbones and upper arms. They form part of the upper back and work together with muscles, ligaments, joints, nerves,
and the thoracic spine to support movement and stability.
Because this region is so complex and also protects vital organs such as the heart and lungs, it can sometimes be difficult to determine the exact cause of the pain.
Common symptoms of shoulder blade pain
Pain in the shoulder blade area can occur on one or both sides of the upper back. The sensations can vary greatly and may include the following:
• Dull, pulling pain
• Sharp or boring pain
• Burning sensation
• Pain between the shoulder blades
• Pain that worsens with
