The shoulder blade, called the scapula, is a large flat triangular bone about midway up your back. It is attached to a network of muscles that help support and move your arms. A wide range of conditions can cause pain under the shoulder blade or in the space between your shoulders. Pain may be dull and achy or sharp, burning, or feel like a tight knot that won’t relax. Most shoulder blade pain is musculoskeletal in nature (due to problems with bones, ligaments, or tendons). Nerve related pain is classically described as shooting or electric-like and felt along the distribution of the nerve.
Occasionally, shoulder blade pain can be a sign of serious disease or injury. If pain in your shoulders or back is severe and doesn’t improve with rest, home remedies, and physical therapy, see a doctor.
A diagnosis begins with a review of your symptoms and medical history and a complete physical exam of the neck, shoulders, and upper back. It is important to tell your doctor about any changes in the intensity of your pain or how it comes and goes over time. If the pain is accompanied by chest pressure or pain, shortness of breath, or nausea, it is important to get emergency care. These may be signs of a heart attack. pain in shoulder blade and neck