Health

Burning Pain Between Shoulder Blades: Causes and Remedies

JH

John H

Health Enthusiastt

18 min read

Burning Pain Between Shoulder Blades: Causes and Remedies

If you've ever experienced a sharp, searing, or persistent burning pain between your shoulder blades, you're not alone. This discomfort can range from mild irritation to severe, debilitating pain that interferes with daily activities. While occasional muscle soreness may be normal, a constant or worsening burning sensation may indicate an underlying medical condition that warrants attention. Understanding the potential causes and available remedies can help you find relief and prevent future episodes.

Understanding the Anatomy

The area between the shoulder blades—medically referred to as the upper back or thoracic spine region—contains a complex network of muscles, nerves, bones, and connective tissues. Key components include:

• Thoracic vertebrae (T1–T12): The middle segment of the spine, providing structural support and protecting the spinal cord.
• Paraspinal muscles: Muscles that run along the spine and help maintain posture and movement.
• Scapulae (shoulder blades): Flat, triangular bones that connect the upper arms to the clavicle.
• Nerves: Spinal nerves exit the thoracic spine and innervate various parts of the chest, back, and abdomen.
• Referred pain pathways: Pain signals from internal organs can be felt in the back due to shared nerve pathways.

Because of this intricate structure, pain in this region can stem from musculoskeletal, neurological, or even visceral (organ-related) issues.

Common Causes of Burning Pain Between Shoulder Blades

1. Poor Posture and Muscle Strain

One of the most frequent causes of upper back pain is poor posture. Sitting for long hours, especially at a desk or while using a computer, can lead to rounded shoulders and forward head posture. This places excessive strain on the trapezius, rhomboids, and other muscles between the shoulder blades.

Over time, this strain can lead to muscle fatigue, tension, and a burning sensation. Repetitive movements, heavy lifting, or sudden twisting motions can also cause muscle or ligament strain in this area.

Symptoms:

• Dull or burning ache that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting
• Tightness or stiffness in the upper back
• Relief with stretching or massage

2. Herniated or Bulging Disc

The intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When a disc in the thoracic spine herniates or bulges, it can press on nearby nerves, causing a burning or radiating pain.

While herniated discs are more common in the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) spine, they can still occur in the upper back and lead to localized or referred pain.

Symptoms:

• Sharp or burning pain that may radiate around the rib cage
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or chest
• Worsening pain with certain movements, coughing, or sneezing
• Muscle weakness in severe cases

3. Thoracic Spine Nerve Compression

Nerve impingement in the thoracic spine—often referred to as thoracic radiculopathy—can occur due to degenerative changes, injury, or inflammation. When nerves are compressed, they may send pain signals that feel like burning, tingling, or electric shocks.

This condition is less common than cervical or lumbar radiculopathy but can still contribute to significant discomfort.

Symptoms:

• Burning pain localized to one side of the upper back
• Pain that follows a band-like pattern around the torso
• Sensory disturbances such as numbness or pins and needles

4. Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic condition involving trigger points—tight, hyper-irritable knots in the muscles. These trigger points can refer pain to other areas, including between the shoulder blades.

The trapezius and rhomboid muscles are common sites for trigger points, and when activated, they can produce a deep, burning sensation.

Symptoms:

• Localized burning or aching pain
• Tender spots in the muscles that may cause referred pain
• Pain that worsens with stress or cold weather
• Relief with massage or heat therapy

5. Gallbladder Issues

One of the most overlooked but potentially serious causes of burning pain between the shoulder blades is gallbladder disease, particularly gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder).

Pain from the gallbladder can radiate to the right shoulder blade due to shared nerve pathways. This is known as referred pain and may be mistaken for muscle strain.

Symptoms:

• Sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen or right shoulder blade
• Burning or cramping sensation after eating, especially fatty foods
• Nausea, vomiting, or bloating
• Fever or jaundice in severe cases

6. Heart-Related Conditions

Although less common, heart issues such as angina or even a heart attack can cause referred pain to the back, including between the shoulder blades. This is particularly true in women, who may experience atypical symptoms.

Symptoms:

• Chest pressure, tightness, or burning that radiates to the back
• Shortness of breath, dizziness, or sweating
• Pain that worsens with exertion and improves with rest
• Palpitations or nausea

If you experience any of these symptoms—especially with a history of heart disease—seek emergency medical attention immediately.

7. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. While the primary symptom is heartburn, acid reflux can sometimes cause referred pain to the upper back, especially between the shoulder blades.

Symptoms:

• Burning sensation behind the sternum or in the upper back
• Worsening pain after eating or when lying down
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Chronic cough or sore throat

8. Osteoarthritis or Degenerative Disc Disease

As we age, the joints and discs in the spine can wear down, leading to osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease. These conditions can cause inflammation, stiffness, and nerve irritation, resulting in a burning sensation.

Symptoms:

• Chronic, dull or burning back pain
• Stiffness that improves with movement
• Crackling or grinding sensation when moving the shoulders
• Pain that worsens over time

9. Spinal Infections or Tumors

Although rare, infections (such as osteomyelitis) or tumors in the spine can cause persistent burning pain. These conditions are serious and often accompanied by other systemic symptoms.

Symptoms:

• Constant, unrelenting back pain that doesn't improve with rest
• Night pain or pain that wakes you up
• Unexplained weight loss or fever
• Neurological deficits like weakness or bowel/bladder changes

10. Stress and Tension

Emotional stress can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Chronic stress may cause the muscles to remain in a state of contraction, resulting in a burning or aching sensation.

Symptoms:

• Pain that fluctuates with stress levels
• Tightness in the neck and shoulders
• Headaches or jaw pain
• Improved pain with relaxation techniques

Diagnosing the Cause of Burning Pain

Because multiple conditions can cause burning pain between the shoulder blades, an accurate diagnosis is essential. Your healthcare provider may use the following methods:

• Medical history: Questions about the onset, duration, triggers, and associated symptoms.
• Physical examination: Assessment of posture, range of motion, muscle strength, and tender areas.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate the spine, discs, and soft tissues.
• Blood tests: To check for inflammation, infection, or markers of organ disease.
• Endoscopy or ultrasound: If GERD or gallbladder issues are suspected.

In some cases, referral to a specialist—such as a neurologist, gastroenterologist, or orthopedic surgeon—may be necessary.

Effective Remedies for Burning Pain Between Shoulder Blades

1. Improve Posture and Ergonomics

Correcting poor posture is one of the most effective long-term solutions. Consider the following tips:

• Keep your computer screen at eye level.
• Use a chair with lumbar support and adjust it to maintain a neutral spine.
• Take breaks every 30–60 minutes to stand, stretch, and move.
• Practice sitting with shoulders back and chin slightly tucked.

2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Regular exercise can alleviate muscle tension and improve spinal health. Try these simple routines:

Upper Back Stretch (Doorway Stretch):

1. Stand in a doorway with arms at 90-degree angles.
2. Place forearms on the door frame.
3. Lean forward gently until you feel a stretch between the shoulder blades.
4. Hold for 20–30 seconds, repeat 3 times.

Thoracic Extension on Foam Roller:

1. Place a foam roller horizontally under your upper back.
2. Support your head with hands and slowly roll up and down.
3. Pause on tight spots and breathe deeply.
4. Perform for 5–10 minutes daily.

Scapular Retraction Exercise:

1. Sit or stand with arms at your sides.
2. Squeeze your shoulder blades together without raising your shoulders.
3. Hold for 5 seconds, then release.
4. Repeat 10–15 times.

Consult a physical therapist for a personalized exercise plan.

3. Heat and Cold Therapy

Alternating heat and cold can reduce inflammation and soothe muscle pain.

• Heat therapy: Use a heating pad or warm compress for 15–20 minutes to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow.
• Cold therapy: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 15 minutes to reduce acute inflammation.

For chronic burning pain, heat is often more effective. Use heat in the morning or before stretching.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen may be used if NSAIDs are not suitable.

Always follow dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you need to use pain relievers regularly.

5. Massage and Myofascial Release

Massage therapy can release muscle knots and improve circulation. A trained therapist may use deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, or myofascial release techniques.

Self-massage tools like massage balls or handheld massagers can also be effective for targeting tight areas between the shoulder blades.

6. Address Underlying Medical Conditions

If your pain is due to a medical issue such as gallstones, GERD, or a herniated disc, treating the root cause is essential.

• Gallbl