Upper Left Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help - Orthopedics

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Upper left back pain can be a complex issue, as it may arise from various causes, including muscular strain, nerve irritation, or even referred pain from internal organs. Given your symptoms of discomfort around the shoulder blade and the upper left back, especially with movements of the neck, it is essential to consider several potential factors.


Possible Causes of Upper Left Back Pain
1. Muscle Strain: One of the most common causes of upper back pain is muscle strain, often due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or prolonged periods of sitting, especially while working on a computer. The muscles in the upper back and neck can become tense and fatigued, leading to pain that may feel sharp or "throbbing."
2. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as a herniated disc or cervical radiculopathy can lead to nerve compression, which may cause pain that radiates from the neck to the upper back and shoulder area. This pain can sometimes be described as a "tingling" or "electric" sensation.

3. Referred Pain: Pain in the upper back can sometimes be referred from other areas, such as the heart or lungs. For instance, conditions like angina or pericarditis can manifest as pain in the upper back, particularly on the left side. This is why it is crucial to monitor any accompanying symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or changes in heart rhythm.

4. Skeletal Issues: Problems with the spine, such as scoliosis, osteoarthritis, or degenerative disc disease, can also lead to upper back pain. If you feel that the pain is related to a specific point in the bone or joint, it may warrant further investigation.

5. Myofascial Pain Syndrome: This condition involves trigger points in the muscles that can cause referred pain in other areas. Pressing on these points can exacerbate the pain, which seems to align with your experience of increased pain upon pressing certain areas.


When to Seek Help
Given the duration of your symptoms and the specific nature of your pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially if:
- The pain persists or worsens over time.

- You experience additional symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands.

- There are signs of systemic issues, such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel or bladder function.

- The pain is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other concerning symptoms that could indicate a cardiac issue.


Recommended Specialists
For your situation, it would be beneficial to consult with a few different types of healthcare providers:
1. Primary Care Physician: They can perform an initial evaluation, assess your symptoms, and refer you to a specialist if necessary.

2. Orthopedic Specialist: If the pain is suspected to be related to skeletal issues, an orthopedic doctor can evaluate your spine and musculoskeletal system.

3. Neurologist: If nerve involvement is suspected, a neurologist can conduct tests to determine if there is any nerve compression or other neurological issues.

4. Physical Therapist: A physical therapist can help with rehabilitation exercises, posture correction, and pain management strategies.


Conclusion
In summary, upper left back pain can stem from various causes, including muscular strain, nerve issues, or referred pain from internal organs. Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life. Remember to monitor any additional symptoms and communicate them to your healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment.