What could be the cause of excruciating pain in the back?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am having excruciating pain in my back, wrapping around my rib muscles under my left breast and down my elbow. At first, I thought it was a stroke or heart attack. I do not know if it is a pinch or a pulled muscle. I cannot lift my arms over my head without collapsing in pain. I cannot take full breaths either. It feels like it starts under my left shoulder blade. I do not know if I should get a sling or what. I cannot bend or reach or do anything that moves my arm away from my side. I have already tried extra-strength Tylenol and muscle relaxers, which did not help.

Please help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I am sorry you are experiencing back pain. Nearly 80 percent of people will experience back pain at some point. Based on the location and description of your pain, it sounds as though you may be experiencing pain due to a rib being out of place.

I would perform a chiropractic examination and recommend chiropractic adjustments and exercises if you were a candidate for care. I recommend you visit a chiropractor for treatment and proper care. They may want an X-ray to confirm their diagnosis, but I suspect they will recommend a trial of care to see how you respond to supervision.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.