Struggling with Unrelenting Pain for Two Years
For the past two years, I've been dealing with a sharp, stabbing sensation between my shoulder blade and spine, which has also spread to my neck. Alongside this, I've experienced weakness and discomfort in my rotator cuff, painful knots in my upper arm, and intense ripping pain, all of which have become increasingly debilitating over the last year. I've explored numerous treatments, including physical therapy, dry needling, cupping, trigger point injections, and even immobilization using a sling, yet the problem persists. Despite this lengthy struggle, I'm curious if anyone has successfully alleviated similar pain. I'm feeling incredibly desperate; doctors often suggest the issue might just be muscular. Interestingly, a rheumatologist suspected that I might have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome four years ago, but I never underwent the genetic testing to confirm it. I regularly take three 800mg doses of ibuprofen each day, but it barely alleviates the discomfort. As a result, I’ve stopped attending the gym, ceased playing tennis, and I’m on the brink of putting my musical pursuits—playing the flute and piccolo—on hold. Being just 19 years old and having to give up my passions feels devastating, and I can’t shake the feeling that my condition worsens the more I withdraw from activities. Has anyone had similar experiences or can offer insight into what might be happening? I've recently captured a video showing how my shoulder blade appears to almost dislocate when I lift and lower my arm, which adds to my concerns about this ongoing issue.
Answers (1)
3/19/2025, 9:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the intense and persistent pain you've been dealing with for the past two years. It’s understandable to feel desperate when you’ve tried many treatments without relief, and having to pause your passions must be incredibly frustrating.
Main Points:
- Possible Underlying Causes: The sharp, stabbing sensation and other symptoms you've described could relate to several factors, including muscular issues, joint instability, or even connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
- Treatment Options: Given your situation, it's important to explore targeted approaches to manage your pain and potentially identify any underlying conditions.
- Empathetic Support: Transitioning away from activities you love due to pain can be devastating, and it's important to approach this holistically.
Explanation:
The symptoms you're experiencing, particularly the sharp pain and weakness in your shoulder and neck area, can stem from various sources, including muscular imbalances, nerve issues, or joint stability problems. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which a specialist suspected previously, can lead to joint hypermobility and pain due to connective tissue weaknesses. This may explain why conventional treatments haven't provided lasting relief.
The fact that your shoulder blade appears to dislocate when lifting your arm suggests potential joint instability or weakness in the surrounding muscles.
Next Steps:
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Further Evaluation:
- Consider Genetic Testing: Since you were suspected to have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, pursuing genetic testing could provide valuable insight and guide your treatment options.
- Seek Specialized Care: If you haven’t already, consult with a specialist in sports medicine or a pain management physician who has experience with chronic pain and connective tissue disorders. A comprehensive evaluation, possibly including imaging like an MRI, might help identify any structural issues.
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Focus on Gentle Movement:
- Although it’s challenging, gradually reintroducing gentle physical activity can help maintain range of motion and strength. Consider guided exercises tailored to your needs, focusing on stabilizing the shoulder and decreasing pain without pushing through it.
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Massage and Manual Therapy:
- Since you’ve noted painful knots, incorporating a skilled massage therapist familiar with chronic pain and potential connective tissue disorders might help alleviate some discomfort in the upper arm and shoulder region.
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Pain Management Strategies:
- Explore alternatives for pain relief, such as topical analgesics or adjusting your medication approach under a doctor's guidance. Long-term use of high doses of ibuprofen may have side effects, so discussing alternative pain management strategies could be beneficial.
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Mental Wellness:
- Don't underestimate the emotional toll chronic pain can have. Engaging in coping strategies, possibly including talking to a mental health professional, might help you manage the psychological impacts of your pain and maintain motivation for pursuing your passions.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are paths forward. Please take these steps at your own pace, and focus on self-care along the way. Let me know if you have any questions or need further information.
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