[36F] Experiencing persistent and migrating shoulder blade pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Musculoskeletal Pain: This is a common cause of shoulder blade pain, especially if the pain is localized and worsens with movement or certain positions. It can be caused by overuse, strain, or injury to the muscles or ligaments in the shoulder area.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, and sometimes muscle relaxants.

• Gallbladder Disease: Although you mentioned your gallbladder was removed 7 years ago, postcholecystectomy syndrome can sometimes occur. This is when symptoms of gallbladder disease continue or develop after gallbladder removal. It can cause pain in the right shoulder or between the shoulder blades, but it's less likely given your pain is on the left side.

  • Treatment may involve medications to relax the muscles of the bile duct, or in some cases, surgical intervention.

• Heart Conditions: While less likely, conditions like pericarditis or heart attack can cause referred pain to the shoulder. However, these would typically present with additional symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or feeling of impending doom.

  • Treatment involves immediate medical attention and can range from medication to surgery.

What you can do

1. Try over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage your pain. Follow the instructions on the bottle for dosage.
2. Rest and avoid any activities that seem to make your pain worse.
3. Apply a warm compress to the area to help relax your muscles and alleviate pain.
4. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back
• Nausea, indigestion, or heartburn
• Sudden dizziness or fainting
• Unusually heavy sweating

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.