02/17/2026
CASE STUDY
Patient presented to the clinic, with recent onset of R shoulder and rib cage pain. No known injury or past history of pain/issues. Pain described as deep underneath his scapula and through his armpit, extending along his rib cage. Often either burning or throbbing in nature
Pertinent history: owns his own painting company, finished a 60 hr job working mostly overhead with heavy rollers. Often pushes roller with R arm. Also helps care for and transfers his father, who recently had a stroke. Shoulder special tests (-) for labrum, mostly (-) RTC w/ some pain on Empty Can test. R shoulder blade appears as pictured, with extreme tenderness along the border and into armpit.
What would be your logical conclusion for what muscle is irritated and the causing this patients pain pattern and symptoms? Drop a guess in the comments below and stay tuned for the answer and treatment plan next wk!
(**Permission given from patient to share photo and basic history)