Shoulder Blade Muscle Knot?

If you have ever experienced a tender spot on the inside edge of your shoulder blade, you know how difficult it can be to massage it out.  Rubbing it against the corner of a wall or smashing it with a lacrosse ball never does the trick.  What if I were to tell you that “knot” you feel isn’t a knot at all?

The majority of the time, pain in that area is “referred pain” from the neck.  The source of the issue is in one spot and the pain is felt in another.  This can explain why digging into the painful spot provides temporary relief at best.  

The joints of the neck can send pain to several places including down the arm, into the hand, and especially to that pesky area around your shoulder blade.  There is a nerve called the dorsal scapular nerve that is often responsible for this issue as it starts in the neck and ends right by the shoulder blade.  

These issues typically arise from prolonged postural strain (sitting at a computer for too long) or, less frequently, from an acute strain (forcefully lifting weights).  Strain on the neck, whether from chronic postural strain or an acute strain, can cause the joints and nerves to become sensitive.  Since the neck is like the circuit breaker to the body, an issue there can cause pain downstream.  

If you notice a light is out in your house you should first check to see if it’s a problem with the lightbulb.  If replacing the lightbulb doesn’t do the trick you should check your breaker box.  If you see a breaker has been flipped, you know the problem is in one area, but the symptoms of the problem are in another.  

To address this type of pain, we need to address the source of the issue.  Make sure your desk is set up ergonomically (see the video below).  

When you are sitting at your desk with your hands on your key board your elbows should be resting at 90 degrees.  Making height adjustments to your chair and desk can help accomplish this.  Your screen should be at eye level, and be sure to bring your keyboard in close so you are not overreaching.  Setting your desk up properly is barely half the battle.  Taking small movement breaks throughout the day is key for overall spine and muscle health.  Try not to sit for more than 45 minutes without getting up and moving.

Movements like the one in the video below are often used to reduce joint-strain in the neck.  This is called a cervical retraction, and it helps decompress the joints in the neck.  You should not experience pain with this movement.  If this or other movements of the neck are painful, it is important to see a qualified spine care practitioner. 

Other stretches like the corner stretch shown below address some of the muscles that get tight when we sit for extended periods. The muscle in question here is the pectoralis major.  When it gets tight it will pull the shoulders forward.  When the shoulders are pulled forward tension is put on the muscles and nerve in the back of the shoulders and upper back.  

As with any issues regarding the neck, it is best to see a medical professional before attempting to fix it yourself.  The above article is for informational purposes only and not meant to diagnose or treat and health conditions.  Every case of neck/back pain is different and requires a unique approach.  Although nuanced, these issues are often resolved quickly without the use of medication or more invasive options if treatment begins shortly after the onset of symptoms.  

If you’re experiencing pain in or around your neck, we’re here to help.  Click HERE to schedule an appointment at our Charlotte office.