Left Shoulder Blade Pain: Causes and Rehab Solutions

Q: Left Shoulder Blade Pain: Causes and Rehab Solutions

Hello： In response to your questions and to provide suggestions： 1. <br>The left scapula is higher than the right side, commonly referred to as "winged scapula," which is caused by atrophy or weakness of the serratus anterior muscle. <br>Performing half push-ups (with the lower b

Pain in the left scapula?

Hello, Dr.
Chen! My left scapula is noticeably higher than the right side.
Could this be causing frequent pain in my left scapula? The discomfort also extends to my arm and elbow joint.
Can rehabilitation therapy help? What exercises can I do at home to alleviate the pain? Thank you!

Cicero, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/11

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation

Hello: In response to your questions and to provide suggestions: 1.
The left scapula is higher than the right side, commonly referred to as "winged scapula," which is caused by atrophy or weakness of the serratus anterior muscle.
Performing half push-ups (with the lower body on the floor, not needing to rise) can help increase strength.
2.
The soreness extending to the arm and elbow may be due to cervical disc herniation, which compresses the nerve roots.
It is advisable to consult a rehabilitation specialist for confirmation and to undergo physical therapy treatments such as heat therapy, electrical stimulation, and cervical traction.

Reply Date: 2007/05/11

More Info

Left shoulder blade pain can be a complex issue, often stemming from various underlying causes. The fact that your left shoulder blade appears higher than the right side could indicate muscular imbalances or postural issues, which can lead to discomfort and pain in the shoulder area, extending to the arm and elbow.

Possible Causes of Left Shoulder Blade Pain
1. Muscle Imbalances: If one shoulder is higher than the other, it may suggest that certain muscles are overactive while others are underactive. This imbalance can lead to strain on the muscles and ligaments around the shoulder blade, resulting in pain.

2. Postural Issues: Poor posture, especially from prolonged sitting or computer use, can lead to shoulder blade pain. Slouching can cause the shoulders to round forward, leading to tension in the upper back and shoulders.

3. Rotator Cuff Injuries: Although your symptoms are primarily in the shoulder blade area, issues with the rotator cuff can also cause referred pain. A tear or inflammation in the rotator cuff can lead to pain that radiates to the shoulder blade.

4. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as a herniated disc in the cervical spine can lead to nerve compression, causing pain that radiates down the arm and into the shoulder blade area.

5. Bursitis or Tendinitis: Inflammation of the bursa (bursitis) or tendons (tendinitis) around the shoulder can lead to pain that may be felt in the shoulder blade as well.

Rehabilitation Solutions
Rehabilitation for shoulder blade pain typically involves a combination of stretching, strengthening, and postural correction exercises. Here are some strategies you can implement at home:
1. Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching can help alleviate tightness in the shoulder and upper back. Consider the following stretches:
- Cross-body shoulder stretch: Bring one arm across your body and use the opposite arm to gently pull it closer to your chest.

- Neck stretches: Tilt your head to one side and hold for 15-30 seconds to stretch the muscles on the opposite side of your neck.

2. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder blade can help improve stability and reduce pain. Some effective exercises include:
- Scapular squeezes: Sit or stand with your arms at your sides. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and hold for a few seconds, then release.

- Wall angels: Stand with your back against a wall and your arms raised in a "W" position. Slowly slide your arms up to form a "Y" while keeping your back and arms in contact with the wall.

3. Postural Awareness: Being mindful of your posture throughout the day can help alleviate pain. Ensure that your workstation is ergonomically set up, and take regular breaks to stretch and move around.

4. Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat can help relax tight muscles, while ice can reduce inflammation. Alternate between the two as needed.

5. Physical Therapy: If your pain persists, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide a tailored rehabilitation program and manual therapy techniques to address your specific needs.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If your shoulder blade pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies if necessary, to determine the underlying cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatment options.

In conclusion, while your left shoulder blade pain may be related to the height difference between your shoulders, it is essential to address any underlying muscular or postural issues through rehabilitation exercises and possibly professional guidance. By incorporating these strategies, you can work towards alleviating your pain and improving your overall shoulder function.

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