Many of us experience shoulder pain, although typically in different ways. For some, it may be a sharp or burning sensation, while for others, it can be achy and tinder. Regardless of the type of pain, this may limit movements and interfere with daily activities. So, what could be the cause of shoulder pain?

Typical Causes of Shoulder Pain:

Improper Posture:

Some of us work at desk jobs and tend to sit for long periods with poor posture. Eventually, this can cause damage, such as structural changes that can cause pain in your shoulder. There are many different improper posture positions we use while working on a computer, such as hunching over a keyboard or sitting to one side. This poor posture can even be from looking down at a cell phone or a tablet, causing you to look downward. These types of improper positions put pressure on your spine and can weaken your muscles. And can add force to the spinal muscles, discs, and ligaments. Thus, causing upper back and shoulder pain.

Also, see The Importance of Proper Posture.

Incorrect Lifting Technique: 

Proper technique is critical when lifting. An improper lifting technique can cause injury to your back or shoulders. For instance, lifting an object that is too heavy can often misalign your spine and put pressure on your back. It is also advisable to be careful when lifting objects overhead, especially if an object is too heavy. And this could lead to straining of ligaments or strain muscles, even potentially injury your shoulder or spine. Remember, even lifting a box from your doorstep wrong can cause injury. 

Overuse: 

Overuse has happened to most of us at one time or another. And whether it be helping someone move, lifting overhead to paint a ceiling, or participating in a new sport. These activities can cause your shoulders and back to overworked more than usual. When this occurs, it can lead to ligament and muscle strains, causing pain in your spine and between your shoulder blades.

Cervical Herniated disc: 

herniated disc occurs when the outer layer of disc tears or splits, causing the gel-like cushion to poke out. Sometimes, a herniated disc can cause pain and inflammation to a nearby nerve root, causing pain radiating pain down into your arm, shoulder, or leg. Although less common, a disc herniation in your thoracic spine could also be cause for shoulder blade pain.

Rib Dislocation: 

While this is also not very common, a rib can dislocate and become misaligned from overhead or repetitive movement. And it can lead to sharp shoulder pain. Furthermore, this comes as a result of a rib that is not aligned, which can limit arm movements and breathing.

Heart Condition: 

A result of some heart conditions can cause pain in the shoulder blade area. Heart problems, such as a tear in one of the large arteries, can cause intense pain that can be felt in the shoulder blade. It’s also common for women to experience pain in the upper back and shoulder when having a heart attack.

Compression Fracture: 

A weak vertebral bone in the upper back can fracture and compress, leading to pain that eases with rest and is often sensitive to touch. A compression fracture is most common in the caused by osteoporosis in the elderly.

If pain affects your daily routines or exists for more than a week, seek help from a medical professional. And it is accompanied by headaches, nausea, or fatigue, seek medical attention immediately. For a preferred specialist in South Florida, call 1-888-409-8006 for more information.