Shoulder Blade

Question

I’ve been having this persistent pain in my shoulder blade area for a few weeks now, and it’s really starting to bother me. It started as a mild discomfort, but over time it has grown worse, especially after sitting for long hours at work or doing any kind of lifting. I thought maybe I just pulled a muscle, but the pain doesn’t go away. It feels like a constant ache, sometimes sharp, and sometimes dull, but it’s always there.

The pain seems to worsen when I twist my torso or raise my arm, particularly my right shoulder blade. I’ve tried massaging it, but it doesn’t seem to help much. Sometimes, the pain even radiates down my arm or up toward my neck. I’ve had a few other issues with stiffness in my neck and shoulders in the past, but nothing like this.

I’ve seen a physiotherapist, but they’ve said it might be due to muscle strain and poor posture. I’ve been sitting at a desk for long hours, and I know I don’t always have the best posture. But this pain in my shoulder blade area feels different. I’ve also been experiencing some tingling in my fingers from time to time, which makes me worried it could be something more serious.

I’m really hesitant about taking painkillers long-term, so I’m wondering if Ayurvedic treatments can help. I’ve heard that Ayurveda focuses on the root cause of problems, and I want to know what’s really going on with my shoulder blade. Could this pain be related to an imbalance in my body’s doshas, or could it be due to an issue with my circulation or nerves?

I’ve read that herbs and oils used in Ayurveda can be really effective in relieving pain. Are there any specific oils, like mahanarayan oil, that can help with shoulder blade pain and stiffness? Are there any yoga poses or stretches that I could try to help release tension in my shoulder blade area? I’ve also heard about some Ayurvedic therapies like panchakarma or abhyanga that might help with muscle pain. Could these be useful in my case?

Could you suggest any dietary changes or lifestyle habits that could support better posture and overall muscle health? I’m willing to make some adjustments if it will help me heal faster and prevent further discomfort in my shoulder blade.

Dr. Rahul Mishra · Answer

Additionally, the tingling sensation in your fingers could be related to Vata disturbances affecting circulation and nerve function.

To address this, consider abhyanga (self-massage) with Mahanarayan oil. This oil has warming and anti-inflammatory properties that help to relieve muscle pain and stiffness. Gently massage it onto the shoulder blade area and the neck to improve circulation and ease discomfort.

In terms of yoga and stretching, poses like Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) and Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose) can open up the chest and shoulders while releasing tension. Supta Matsyendrasana (Reclining Spinal Twist) is also excellent for relieving tightness in the shoulder and upper back. Incorporating these into your routine can help release the built-up tension and improve posture.

For breathing practices, try Ujjayi pranayama (victorious breath) to calm the nervous system and improve circulation, especially around the shoulder and neck area. It helps relax the muscles and supports mental clarity, which is crucial for reducing stress.

Diet-wise, incorporating grounding foods like root vegetables, warm soups, and ghee can help balance Vata and promote muscle healing. Avoid too much caffeine or spicy food, as these can aggravate Vata and increase inflammation.

Finally, it’s important to keep a focus on posture. Try to incorporate regular breaks into your workday to stand, stretch, and correct your posture, especially if you sit for long hours. As for exercise, avoid heavy lifting until the pain subsides, but low-impact movements and gentle stretches will help promote healing.

Remember to continue with your prescribed treatment, and always check with your doctor before trying any new remedies. These Ayurvedic approaches can support your healing process, but it’s important to follow a holistic plan that includes both conventional and natural practices.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Your persistent shoulder blade pain is likely due to muscle strain, poor posture, and possible nerve compression, which could be aggravated by an imbalance in Vata and Kapha doshas. Ayurveda suggests external applications like Mahanarayan oil or Dhanwantharam oil for deep tissue healing—warm oil massage (Abhyanga) followed by a hot compress can improve circulation and relieve stiffness. Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha and Guggulu can help reduce inflammation and strengthen muscles. Since you experience tingling, there could be nerve involvement, so incorporating Dashmool preparations or medicated ghee like Bala Ashwagandha ghrita may help. Gentle yoga poses such as Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose), Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), and Shoulder Rolls can relieve tension, while regular stretching and improving desk posture are crucial. Avoid cold and dry foods that aggravate Vata; instead, focus on warm, nourishing foods with ghee, turmeric, and sesame seeds to support joint and muscle health. If pain persists, Panchakarma therapies like Pizhichil (warm oil therapy) or Kati Basti (localized oil treatment) can provide deep healing. Try adjusting your workstation ergonomics and taking breaks to stretch during long work hours to prevent further strain.

Shoulder Blade - #17539

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions