[31F] Experiencing severe shoulder blade pain and neurological symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possibilities:

• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS): This condition occurs when blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and your first rib (thoracic outlet) are compressed. This can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers. You mentioned this condition in your description, and your symptoms of shoulder pain, arm numbness, and cold hands could be consistent with this diagnosis.

  • Treatment for TOS typically involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. In some cases, surgery might be needed.

• Cervical Radiculopathy: This condition occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes inflamed or damaged, resulting in a change in neurological function. Symptoms can include pain that spreads into the arm, neck, chest, upper back and/or shoulders, numbness or tingling in the arms, and weakness.

  • Treatment for cervical radiculopathy might include physical therapy, medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and in some cases, surgery.

• Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Your symptoms of constant pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties could potentially be consistent with this condition.

  • Treatment for fibromyalgia typically involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress management and healthy lifestyle habits.

What you can do

You should definitely seek medical attention given the severity and duration of your symptoms. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. They can perform a physical examination and potentially order imaging studies to further evaluate your symptoms.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they occur, and how long they last. This can be helpful information for your healthcare provider.
3. Try gentle stretching exercises to see if they help relieve your shoulder pain. However, stop any activity that increases your pain.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden onset of severe pain
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Weakness or numbness in your arm or hand
• Changes in vision or speech

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.