Numbness between shoulder blades indicates a grave medical situation, like a, nerve impingement or a heart attack and ought to be considered and managed as an emergency medical situation. The exact diagnosis of the etiological factor is made on the basis of other symptoms and clinical manifestations present. Tests and investigations will also help make an accurate diagnosis, thus determining the appropriate line of treatment.
An impingement or pinching of the nerve is the commonest cause of numbness. Furthermore, the back muscles need oxygen to function properly. Flow of oxygen gets reduced when you undergo a heart attack, causing numbness. Other symptoms that help make the diagnosis are: nausea, palpitation, giddiness, fainting, and pain. On the other hand, some people do not show any symptoms except for the minor discomfort in the shoulder.
When the vertebrae in the upper back get injured, disc herniation can occur, this causes pain and numbness and pain between the shoulders. Numbness may be preceded by tingling or a dull ache.
Various investigations and tests are used to diagnose the cause of numbness of the shoulder blade. An X-ray of the spine and a nerve conduction test helps determine whether the numbness is due to herniation of the disc.
What Causes Numbness Under Shoulder Blade?
By far the commonest cause for numbness of the shoulders is a pinched / impinged nerve in the neck – cervical radiculopathy. This occurs because of degenerative disease, cervical spondylosis. Damage to the brachial plexus is another significant cause for tingling numbness of the shoulder blades. This may be accompanied by pain and discomfort as well as weakness.
There are various treatment alternatives that can help in the management of cervical radiculopathy. Note that the treatment of the condition depends upon the underlying causative factors, clinical features and symptoms along with the intensity and duration of symptoms.
In case of a heart attack, women in particular, are more likely to have numbness between the shoulder blades, and this is often mistaken for a pulled muscle.
Home Remedies To Relieve Numbness In Shoulder
- Your doctor will prescribe a vitamin B complex supplement. Vitamin B complex is extremely vital for the healthy functioning of nerves. Supplementation, twice daily will help diminish the numbness gradually.
- Also, a calcium supplement is recommended.
- Ginger is an ideal home remedy in most nerve related disorders. Ginger is packed with a compound called gingerols. These help treat inflammation and swelling that is associated with nerve impingement effectively. Boil about 1 inch of grated ginger root in a glass of water and consume daily, for a period of 1 month.
- Soy is another food prescription that handles nerve complaints and disorders.
- Step up your intake of milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, whole grains and nuts.
- Acupressure is known to be of immense value in the management of nerve complaints. Plan daily sessions with a qualified acupressure therapist. Acupressure will help reduce the numbness, improve nerve function and also help manage the associated symptoms.
- Aromatherapy is another effective way to relive numbness. Massaging the affected area helps relieve the symptoms to a very great extent. Fix up appointment with a licensed masseuse. Essential oils such as clove oil, nutmeg oil and lavender afford good relief.
- Physical therapy is a must too. Exercising every day for at least half an hour is required. It helps reduce tingling numbness, builds muscle strength, and allays pain and discomfort.