Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 1/26/2008

Question
Dr.,

A couple of months ago I started having a dull pain or numbing sensation in my upper left back, right about where my shoulder blade is (sometimes the pain seems to be coming from right below or under my shoulder blade).  It is more pronounced when I sit down, but I can feel it at all times including sometimes at night when I am sleeping and when I am walking.  I didn't have any major life changes when it first started happening, and it seems to be getting worse.  I have no idea what this could be, but it is highly annoying.

Answer
It can be any number of things; first and foremost, see your family doctor and have any medical problems ruled out.  If all is clear, check with a chiropractor.  They should be able to address the problem, whether it is muscular or misalignment related.