Understanding Pain between your Shoulder Blades
Understanding Mid Back Pain: Causes, Referral Patterns, and Active Solutions
Mid back pain, especially discomfort or tension between the shoulder blades, is a common complaint that can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. Understanding the causes and referral patterns of this pain is key to addressing it effectively. This blog will explore some common reasons for mid back pain, the phenomenon of Cloward signs, and the importance of an active care approach, including chiropractic care and rehabilitation strategies.
Common Causes of Pain Between the Shoulder Blades
Pain between the shoulder blades, or interscapular pain, can stem from a variety of sources, including:
Poor Posture: Prolonged sitting or standing with rounded shoulders or a forward head posture can place excessive stress on the thoracic spine and surrounding musculature.
Muscle Strain: Overuse, repetitive movements, or sudden trauma can strain the rhomboids, trapezius, or other muscles between the shoulder blades.
Thoracic Joint Dysfunction: Restrictions or misalignments in the facet joints of the thoracic spine can lead to localized pain and discomfort.
Referred Pain: Pain originating from other regions, such as the cervical spine or internal organs, can manifest in the mid back region.
Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as herniated discs, scoliosis, or degenerative changes in the spine can contribute to chronic mid back pain.
Cloward Signs: Referred Pain from the Neck to the Mid Back
Cloward signs are a well-documented phenomenon where irritation of the intervertebral discs in the cervical spine refers pain to the mid back, often between the shoulder blades. This referral pattern occurs due to shared nerve pathways in the spinal cord. For example, irritation of the C5-C6 or C6-C7 discs may present as aching or sharp pain in the interscapular region.
Understanding Cloward signs is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Without addressing the cervical spine as a potential source, treatment may fail to resolve the root cause of mid back pain.
The Role of Chiropractic Care in Managing Mid Back Pain
Chiropractic care can play a vital role in relieving mid back pain by addressing joint dysfunction, improving mobility, and reducing muscular tension. Specific techniques, such as spinal adjustments and soft tissue therapy, can help alleviate pain and restore function. However, while chiropractic care is effective in providing symptom relief, it is not a standalone solution for long-term recovery.
The Importance of an Active Care Approach
A sustainable solution to mid back pain requires an active care approach. This involves engaging the patient in their recovery through targeted exercises and rehabilitation techniques, including:
Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS): DNS focuses on retraining the body’s movement patterns by activating the deep stabilizing muscles of the spine and improving overall motor control. This approach helps restore proper function to the thoracic and cervical regions, reducing strain and improving posture.
Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT): Also known as the McKenzie Method, MDT emphasizes patient-driven exercises to centralize and reduce pain. This technique is particularly effective for addressing referred pain caused by cervical disc issues.
Strength and Mobility Rehabilitation: Strengthening the muscles that support the thoracic spine, such as the rhomboids, trapezius, and erector spinae, is essential for maintaining proper posture and preventing future episodes of pain. Mobility exercises targeting the thoracic spine can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Integrating Chiropractic and Active Care
Combining chiropractic care with an active care approach provides a comprehensive strategy for addressing mid back pain. While chiropractic adjustments address joint dysfunction and alleviate immediate discomfort, active care strategies empower patients to take control of their recovery. This integrative approach not only resolves the current issue but also reduces the likelihood of recurrence by improving strength, mobility, and motor control.
Conclusion
Mid back pain, particularly between the shoulder blades, can be a frustrating and persistent issue. By understanding its potential causes, including referred pain from the cervical spine via Cloward signs, and adopting an active care approach, individuals can achieve lasting relief. Chiropractic care, when combined with dynamic neuromuscular stabilization, mechanical diagnosis and therapy, and strength and mobility rehabilitation, offers a holistic path to recovery and prevention. If you’re struggling with mid back pain, consider consulting a healthcare professional who can tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs.