Pain in the upper back near the shoulder blade that worsens while breathing and is also felt in the chest is most commonly due to musculoskeletal causes, such as:
• Muscle strain or spasm around the shoulder blade or upper back
• Costochondritis (inflammation of rib joints)
• Postural strain from long sitting, computer work, or improper sleeping position
Because the pain increases while taking a deep breath, it may also be pleuritic pain, which can occur with:
• Chest wall inflammation
• Viral infection or pleurisy
• Rarely lung conditions like infection or pulmonary embolism
If the pain is localized, increases on movement or deep breathing, and improves with rest, it is usually muscle or rib-related rather than a heart problem.
Next Steps
You should monitor for any warning signs. Seek medical evaluation and consider ECG and chest examination if any of the following are present:
• Severe chest pain or pressure spreading to arm/jaw
• Shortness of breath
• Fever or cough
• Pain lasting more than 3–5 days
• History of recent injury, heavy lifting, or long travel
If symptoms are mild, the usual management includes:
• Paracetamol or mild anti-inflammatory medicine (if no contraindication)
• Local heat application to the upper back
• Rest and avoiding heavy lifting
• Gentle shoulder and back stretching
Health Tips
• Maintain good posture, especially if you work long hours sitting.
• Avoid sleeping on very high pillows which strain the upper back.
• Apply warm compress for 10–15 minutes twice daily to reduce muscle spasm.
• Gentle shoulder blade mobility exercises can help relieve tension.
• Practice slow deep breathing to avoid stiffness of chest wall muscles.
If the pain persists beyond a few days or worsens with breathing, a clinical examination and possibly a chest X-ray/ECG may be needed to rule out other causes.
You can also consult online and share more details about the pain location and duration so that I can guide you further and help arrange appropriate evaluation if required.