Nerve Pain in the Back and Chest: Causes and Solutions

Nerve pain in the back and chest?

I experience severe nerve pain in the upper back area under my right armpit.
During the pain episodes, there are times when I am unable to move or breathe.
When the pain is less intense, I still feel pain when I inhale.
The frequency of these episodes is irregular, but this has been occurring for some time.
Additionally, I also have nerve pain in the rib area just below my left chest, and sometimes it radiates to the inner side of my left upper arm, which also worsens with breathing.
The frequency of these occurrences is also irregular, and this has been happening for a while.
I am unsure of the underlying cause.
Thank you for your response.

Zi Qian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/10/14

Dr. Lin Zijing reply Neurology

These pains need to be differentiated from pleural diseases, intercostal muscle diseases, intercostal nerve diseases, and spinal nerve diseases.
Generally speaking, neuropathic pain is more likely to present with sensations such as stabbing, tingling, cutting, burning, or electric shock-like pain, and the pain often has a dermatomal distribution.
In contrast, inflammatory muscle pain is mostly characterized by tenderness or pain that occurs only when the affected area is moved.
Additionally, pleuritic pain is more likely to be exacerbated by deep breathing.
Therefore, it is recommended that you first consult a pulmonologist, and if the issue is not resolved, then see a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2009/10/14

More Info

Understanding nerve pain, especially in the back and chest, can be complex due to the intricate nature of the nervous system and the various conditions that can lead to such symptoms. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing significant nerve pain in your right upper back and left chest area, which is accompanied by difficulty in movement and breathing during episodes of intense pain. This type of pain can be quite debilitating and concerning.

Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, can arise from several underlying causes. One common cause is nerve compression, which can occur due to herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other structural abnormalities in the spine. When nerves are compressed, they can send abnormal signals to the brain, resulting in pain, tingling, or numbness. In your case, the pain in the right upper back could be related to issues in the cervical or thoracic spine, where nerves that innervate the upper back and chest originate.

Another potential cause of your symptoms could be thoracic outlet syndrome, where nerves or blood vessels are compressed in the space between the collarbone and the first rib. This condition can lead to pain in the shoulder, arm, and chest, and may also cause numbness or weakness in the affected areas.

Additionally, conditions such as intercostal neuralgia, which involves inflammation or irritation of the intercostal nerves (the nerves that run between the ribs), could explain the pain in your left chest and upper arm. This type of pain can be sharp and may worsen with certain movements or breathing.

It is also important to consider the possibility of referred pain, where pain is perceived in an area different from its source. For example, issues with the heart or lungs can sometimes manifest as pain in the chest or back, so it is crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life, it is advisable to seek a thorough evaluation from a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist. They may recommend imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to assess the condition of your spine and surrounding structures. Additionally, nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) can help determine if there is any nerve damage or dysfunction.

In the meantime, managing your symptoms may involve a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs, may help alleviate pain and inflammation. Physical therapy can assist in strengthening the muscles around the spine and improving posture, which may relieve pressure on the nerves. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises, can also be beneficial, as stress can exacerbate pain symptoms.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be indicative of nerve pain due to various potential causes, a comprehensive evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms in detail and explore the best course of action for your situation.

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