Neck pain

Nowadays, we spend a great deal of time sitting, or working at computers, or performing repetitive tasks. This often causes postural problems and muscle tension in the neck, which may give rise to headache, migraine or other pain. In addition, muscle tension caused by such stress and fatigue can put extra pressure on the joints of the neck which can irritate the spinal nerves. This can sometimes lead to pain, known as 'referred' pain, in other parts of the body or numbness or 'pins and needles' in your shoulders, arms and hands. If pain has not improved progressively after several days' rest, a visit to your chiropractor is advisable.

Pain between the shoulders

Can have various causes, ranging from muscle strain to more serious underlying conditions. Here are some common causes of pain between the shoulders:

Muscle strain: Poor posture, overuse, or carrying heavy objects can strain the muscles between the shoulders, leading to pain and discomfort.

Poor posture: Slouching or sitting in a hunched position for prolonged periods can strain the muscles between the shoulders, causing pain.

Neck and upper back tension: Tension in the neck and upper back muscles can radiate between the shoulders and cause pain in that area.

Thoracic herniated disc: A herniated disc in the middle or upper back can compress nearby nerves, resulting in pain between the shoulders.

Shoulder impingement: When the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become compressed or irritated, it can cause pain that radiates between the shoulders.

Osteoarthritis: Degenerative changes in the joints between the vertebrae can lead to arthritis, causing pain in the upper back and between the shoulders.

Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, resulting in pain between the shoulders.

Gallbladder issues: Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones or inflammation (cholecystitis), can cause referred pain that is felt between the shoulders.

Heart problems: Although less common, certain heart conditions, such as angina (chest pain) or a heart attack, can cause pain that is felt between the shoulders.

Other causes: Other potential causes include stress, anxiety, fractures, muscle spasms, referred pain from other areas, or underlying medical conditions.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional if you're experiencing persistent or severe pain between the shoulders to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.

If you have been in an accident, it is wise to consult your chiropractor as soon as possible. Your doctor, or the Accident and Emergency department, will have checked at the time that you have no fracture, dislocation, paralysis or open wound, but even if they find no serious injury, the nerves branching out from your neck may be under stress. You may find that you are still in pain months afterwards, and this could cause disability permanently if not corrected.

In cases of Acute/Subacute and Chronic neck pain Chiropractic manipulation together with massage will restore more normal movement to your neck. Your chiropractor may also prescribe exercises to help you regain strength and flexibility and relieve long-term pain and discomfort.

References:

1 Scofferman Spine Vol 19 1994 Number 9 pp 1007010

2 Paimer and Raymaker Injury The British Accident journal 1993 p75-78