General practice·General practice
Shoulder blade pain
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Shoulder blade pain is discomfort or pain felt in the area between your shoulder blades (the triangle-shaped bones at the back of your shoulders). It can be a dull ache, sharp pain, or a burning sensation.
Key facts
- Most shoulder blade pain is caused by muscle strain or poor posture.
- It can sometimes be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a heart problem or gallbladder disease, but this is less common.
- Simple self-care often helps, but see a doctor if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms.
Yes, shoulder blade pain is quite common. Many people experience it at some point, especially if they have jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive arm movements or poor posture.
It can affect people of all ages, but is more common in adults who work at desks, do heavy lifting, or play sports that involve the arms (like tennis or swimming).