[43M] Experiencing right back shoulder blade pain radiating to chest and arm

Patient Description

A 43-year-old male presents with pain in the right back shoulder blade area, which is also causing discomfort in the right chest and arm. The patient indicates that the shoulder blade pain is the most bothersome symptom. Further details about the onset, duration, intensity, character, and factors that alleviate or exacerbate the pain are not provided in the encounter.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Musculoskeletal Strain: This is a common cause of back and shoulder pain, often resulting from overuse, injury, or strain during physical tasks or exercise. This could also cause referred pain to your chest and arm.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and physical therapy.
  • Gallbladder Disease: The gallbladder is located on the right side of your body and can cause pain in the right shoulder blade, chest, and arm when it is inflamed or if there are gallstones.

    • Treatment may involve dietary changes, medications, or in some cases, surgery.
  • Heart Conditions: Although less common in your age group, conditions like angina or a heart attack can cause pain in the chest, arm, and sometimes the shoulder blade. This is typically a crushing or heavy pain, often associated with shortness of breath, sweating, and feeling unwell.

    • This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Please note that this advice is based on the information you've provided and might not cover all possible causes. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Rest and avoid any activities that worsen your pain.
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help with musculoskeletal pain.
  3. If your pain is severe, worsening, or associated with other symptoms like shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain radiating to your jaw or left arm
  • Sweating, nausea, or feeling generally unwell

These could be signs of a heart condition, which requires immediate medical attention.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common causes of pain in the shoulder blade area?

Common causes of pain in the shoulder blade area include musculoskeletal strain, gallbladder disease, and less commonly, heart conditions. Musculoskeletal strain is often due to overuse or injury, while gallbladder issues can cause referred pain. Heart conditions, though less common, can also present with similar symptoms.


How can I differentiate between musculoskeletal pain and a more serious condition like a heart problem?

Musculoskeletal pain is often related to physical activity and can be alleviated with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers. Heart-related pain is typically more severe, crushing, or heavy, and may be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea. If in doubt, seek medical attention.


What are the typical treatments for musculoskeletal strain in the shoulder area?

Typical treatments for musculoskeletal strain include rest, avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, and physical therapy. These measures help reduce inflammation and promote healing.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for shoulder and chest pain?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, pain radiating to your jaw or left arm, or symptoms like sweating, nausea, or feeling generally unwell, as these could indicate a heart condition.


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