Differential Diagnosis for Scapular Muscle Pain with Non-Traumatic Cause
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Muscle Strain or Overuse: This is often due to repetitive activities or poor posture, leading to strain on the muscles around the scapula. It's a common condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition involves compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass into the thoracic outlet (the space between your collarbone and first rib). It can cause pain in the scapular region, among other symptoms.
- Scapulothoracic Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae around the scapula can cause pain, especially with movement of the scapula.
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome: This condition is characterized by pain and inflammation in specific areas of muscle, known as trigger points, which can refer pain to the scapular area.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although less common, a pulmonary embolism can cause referred pain to the scapular area, especially if the embolism is located in the upper parts of the lung. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Pneumonia or Pleurisy: Infections or inflammation of the lung or pleura can cause pain that radiates to the scapular area, especially if the condition affects the upper lobe of the lung.
- Spinal Cord Compression or Herniated Disk: Compression of the spinal cord or a herniated disk in the cervical or thoracic spine can cause radiating pain to the scapular area, along with other neurological symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors can cause scapular pain if they originate in or metastasize to the scapula, ribs, or surrounding soft tissues.
- Inflammatory Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis can cause inflammation and pain in the muscles and joints around the scapula, though this is less common.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: This is an inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, typically in the shoulders and hips, which can include the scapular area.