Back Pain...in between shoulder blades with numbness and tingling.?

Question

For the last couple of weks I've been experiencing a progressivly worse pain in my back, right around the shoulder blades. Now it has started to tingle, and the skin feels streched tight. I don't have any health insurance, does anyone have idea what this could be, and some inexpensive home treatments?

Answer 1

I notice one person advised heat, but when I have this issue ice works better for me personally. I've found that while heat might make it feel better, it also increases blood flow to the area which can create MORE inflammation. Ice, on the other hand, decreases inflammation.
Another person advised chiropractic care, and I have to say that chiropractic care has worked very well for me.
In addition to icing the area, pay attention to how you sleep. Rather than using a standard pillow, roll a towel up to make a "neck roll" - this can sometimes help the neck and shoulders be properly aligned during sleep.
You may want to cut back on activities such as sitting for extended periods at the computer or other activities in which you find your head tilted down, your shoulders tensed, etc. If your job requires long hours at the computer, take frequent stretch breaks.
Finally, try out some relaxation techniques. Often people will "hold their stress" in the areas you describe as giving you problems. Become aware of your body, and take time to RELAX.
Good luck! :)

Answer 2

Are there any pharmacies near you that offer free health screening checks (such as blood pressure and cholesterol)? You might go and ask them if this is a symptom of a heart attack. A trained pharmacist is better qualified than a plain old layman at giving medical advice. If it is heart-related, you want to lay out the big bucks, regardless of insurance.

You might try some yoga stretches. If your library has any "yoga for pregnancy" this is a good place to start. I know this sounds ridiculous! But pregnant and nursing mothers often hold their stress between their shoulder blades, and the stretches target that area, so it's good. And because it is for pregnant women, the stretches are often very easy and mild, so it's a great starting place.

Finally, I love Tiger Balm for aches and pains. See if you can get someone to rub it into your back every night. Or use a "backscratcher" covered with plastic wrap to apply it (and give yourself a mini-massage).

And as with anything, eat a diet full of nutritious stuff, and get some exercise as appropriate to your body shape. And bite the bullet if it gets worse, and get some medical help.

Answer 3

Be Careful and smart about any persistent pain that lasts more than a few days and/or worsens. Heart attacks manifest this way , and some types of aortic aneurysms are felt in the neck, back and chest. Go to an ER or a walk in clinic immediately if this continues.

Answer 4

Go see a Chiropractor. Your problem is nerve related. Nerves transmit sensation and when sensation changes, it can only have a nerve component.
Call around to find one that will work with your finances. They may not reduce their rate, but will accept payment plans. In my office I take in a certain amount of free patients per month.

Answer 5

Sounds like a pinched nerve. My son had this problem and saw a chiropractor for treatment. They can work out a payment schedule with you if you don't have insurance. I go to one and pay as I go because my insurance doesn't cover it.

Answer 6

Don't mess around with that! You need to go to a Dr. or the ER. The ER sounds like your best bet without any health insurence. They have to take you even if you are unable to pay.

Answer 7

Try a heating pad that will loosen it up some.