Common Causes of Neck, Left Shoulder and Upper Back Pain

Neck, left shoulder and upper back pain are a common condition that many people will suffer from at some point during their life. The pain caused from these areas can be from mild and slightly achy, to severe and chronic. The causes of neck, left shoulder and upper back pain are as varied as the pain but your shoulder is often the cause. The shoulder joints movements and complex composition makes the shoulder very vulnerable to such things as tears, strains, and sprains. This can be a source of inflammation of the ligaments, muscles, bursa, and the capsules which are part of the joints makeup. Injury to the shoulder can result in neck, left shoulder and upper back pain.

The joints, muscles and tendons in the shoulders are responsible for the wide range of mobility and when injured usually result in upper back and shoulder pain. Neck and shoulder pain can be temporary and disappear quickly or it can cause severe and long lasting pain.

Some of the many causes of neck, left shoulder and upper back pain include tendinitis, which is a cord, connecting the bones, muscles or other tissues. Severe injury or years of wear and tear can all lead to tendinitis. Overuse and degenerative diseases can also lead to tendinitis. Rotator cuff injuries are one of the most common causes of pain requiring some form of shoulder pain treatment. Your rotator cuff is tendons and muscles that provide stability and motion to your shoulder. The space provided for your rotator cuff is very narrow, so swelling or inflammation can cause neck, left shoulder and upper back pain along with weakening of your arm.

It is wise to identify the cause so you can cure shoulder pain. Lifestyle changes often help or prevent neck and shoulder pain. Although you cannot always prevent injuries and accidents, there are things that you can do to help stop recurring pain. Along with staying in good physical shape, a regular daily exercise program that focuses on your shoulder, neck, and back area helps strengthen and protect the balance of muscles. Always use proper lifting techniques, maintain good posture, learn to deal with unhealthy stress in a positive way and find new ways to perform jobs that aggravate your problem.   

It is important to consult a doctor and find treatment if there is any kind of neck, left shoulder and upper back being felt. Range of motion test, x-rays, MRI’s, and a neurological exam may make up the total physical evaluiation that is done. Once your doctor determines the cause of your neck, left shoulder and upper back pain, he or she will start you on a treatment program. There are also natural ways to treat any back or shoulder pain. Once you know what has caused your pain you are half way there.