When you experience rhomboid muscle pain that is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or nausea, it is important to seek medical attention. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or acetaminophen are examples of anti-inflammatory drugs that can be used for pain relief. Stretching exercises, icing, and avoiding activities that put pressure on the area can also help to ease the pain. If the pain is chronic, talk to your healthcare provider about the possibility of getting a referral to physical therapy.
Prolozone therapy involves injecting oxygen and nutrients into the affected structures to provide a direct supply of what is needed to heal them and relieve pain. Obesity and being overweight can also contribute to rhomboid muscle pain as the back muscles have to work harder to support the basic activities of daily living. Women are more likely to experience pain between the shoulder blades before a heart attack than men. Tumors can press on nerves near the top of the lungs, leading to pain in the area between the shoulders.
Some of the structures associated with the rhomboid muscle have poor blood supply, so they may have difficulty healing on their own. The first step when dealing with a rhomboid muscle injury is to stop the activity that caused it. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to help you regain strength and movement in the affected muscles. Upper back pain between the shoulder blades can be a symptom of a heart attack, stroke, or other serious heart event.
If the pain is due to something that isn't related to the structures of the shoulder or back, such as a heart condition, you may need interventions such as medications or lifestyle changes. Injuries can cause shoulder pain, such as shoulder joint separation and rotator cuff tears. Shingles can cause long-lasting pain in addition to a rash, a condition called postherpetic neuralgia. There are many muscles in the back and between the ribs, and strains and sprains are common causes of back pain.
Sometimes disc disease in the neck can cause positional pain that gets better or worse when you flex or extend your neck.