What Causes Constant Pain In Shoulder Blade After Doing Mild Exercises?

Posted on Thu, 27 Aug 2015

Question: Last week, after doing mild exercises and using 3 lb. weights, I've had constant pain either on or near my left shoulder blade. When I reach for something on my left side the pain shoots down my arm. I've tried icing it and using a heating pad, but I'm still in constant pain. Could I have pinched a nerve?

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
muscle tear

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your medical question.

You recently started an exercise program and lifted some weights and now you have pain in the shoulder blade area. When you lift your arm up and to the left there is pain radiating into your arm. This is likely a pulled muscle and not a pinched nerve. The muscles in the shoulder blade are attached to the upper arm and with the movement you are describing you are irritating that muscle. To allow for healing you may need to take several weeks off from weight lifting. This is not a permanent condition and should heal

If your pain is that severe you may need to be seen by a doctor so they can prescribe a pain medication and some muscle relaxants

I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again for your health care questions and concerns

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar