[37F] With sudden onset upper back and shoulder pain

Patient Description

A 37-year-old female reports experiencing soreness and pain in the upper back, shoulders, neck, and upper chest since waking up this morning. Initially, the pain was localized to the neck but has progressively worsened throughout the day, spreading to the shoulder blades and collarbone. The patient describes the pain as similar to post-exercise soreness with episodes of sharp pain, particularly upon movement, which limits her range of motion. The pain is rated as a 6 out of 10 in severity. There is no history of recent injuries, unusual physical activities, or changes in posture or workstation setup. The patient has attempted self-care measures, including heat application, ibuprofen, and Tylenol, with some relief. There is no accompanying swelling, redness, or other symptoms such as numbness or tingling. The patient has a history of degenerative disc disease but no recent changes in thyroid medication or related symptoms. No recent stress or anxiety reported that could contribute to muscle tension.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

Muscle Strain or Tension: This is a common cause of pain in the upper back, shoulders, neck, and upper chest. It can occur from sleeping in an awkward position or sudden movements. The soreness and sharp pain you describe could be related to muscle strain.
Cervical Radiculopathy: This condition occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, which can cause pain that radiates to the shoulder blades and collarbone. Given your history of degenerative disc disease, this is a possibility to consider.
Postural Issues: Poor posture, especially if you spend a lot of time sitting or working at a desk, can lead to muscle tension and pain in these areas.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome: This is a chronic pain disorder where pressure on sensitive points in your muscles (trigger points) causes pain in seemingly unrelated parts of your body.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis, here are some steps you can take to help alleviate your symptoms:

Apply Heat: Continue using a heating pad or warm compress on the affected areas to help relax tense muscles.
Gentle Stretching: Perform gentle neck and shoulder stretches to improve flexibility and reduce tension. Be cautious not to overextend or cause more pain.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Continue taking ibuprofen or Tylenol as directed to help manage pain and inflammation.
Posture Check: Ensure that your workstation is ergonomically set up to support good posture. Consider using a supportive chair and adjusting your computer screen to eye level.
Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and gain insights. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Worsening Pain: If the pain becomes more severe or does not improve with self-care measures.
New Symptoms: If you develop numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or hands.
Persistent Symptoms: If the pain persists for more than a few days without improvement.

Remember, while these suggestions may help, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to reach out.

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19 d ago

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