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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.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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