Ask a PT

156 Posts
 
Posted - 10/08/2007 :  16:30:24  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Our user asked: "I have a 3 year history of SEVERE upper thoracic pain than extends from the T1-T5 area to the medial superior border of my scapula. My latest theory/diagnosis is Rhomboid major/minor muscle tear/spasm. Had cervical surgery hoping it would help but it didn't. Can you suggest rehab ideas or even a definitive way I could definitively diagnosis this injury. Have a stack of MRI that have been done over the years."

Ask a PT Response: "Referred pain in the thoracic spine region, called Cloward's area, is often associated with cervical spine disorders. If surgery was unsuccessful with giving you relief from your pain than further medical testing is still required. Rhomboid muscle involvement is a possibility for your condition as the rhomboid (major) does originate at the spinous processes of the second through fifth thoracic vertebrae and inserts at the medial border of your shoulder blade. A PT evaluation, MRI of the rhomboid or electromyography will be able to give a better idea if there is rhomboid involvement. Other causes of pain in that region could include and is not limited to myofascial pain, thoracic facet impingement and postural/mechanical dysfunction. Consultation with a PT or other orthopedic specialist may be able to give you a better idea. Good luck with finding an answer to your problem and thanks for using CyberPT."