Back Pain

[tony1976]

Thanks for taking my question. I have a question about back pain and heart disease. I have been experiencing pain just below my left shoulder blade near my spine. I also have chronic costochondritis so I have had two complete cardiac work ups over the past 2 years to be safe with the latest in March. Both work ups included thallium stress tests and echos all came back normal.

About me, I am 47, 50 pounds overweight, good cholesterol at 169  total, LDL of 63 and HDL of 40, tris are hig at330 but coming down. Controlled blood pressure at 110/70, no family history, exercise 7 days a week and no symptoms with exercise.

My question is how likely is it that these back pains are cardiac related. They don't come on when I work out, ususally when working at my desk or just sitting on the couch. I have been checked out pretty closely for any heart problems over the past 18 months so I don't think it's realted, but don't really know if it's worth running back to the cardiologist over. Also, could it be related to my costochondritis?

Thanks for your time.

Tony

[CCF-M.D.-MJM]

Hi Tony,

Based on the description above, specifically the rest pain features, and the previous negative cardiac tests, I agree that this pain does not sound cardiac in nature.  I am not sure if it is costochondritis -- that is usually a diagnosis of exclusion.  I would see someone about the back pain if it really bothers you.

I hope this helps.   Keep working out and good luck!

[NurseKagome]

Thats funny cause I get that aching, nawing pain just under my left scapula....odd.

[christina95630]

i would like to know that answer also. i have had the same situation.

[tony1976]

I should add that these pains are nothing new, I've had them off and on for a few years and they are never accompanied by any other cardiac warning sign like SOB, chest pain or any others.

Thanks
Tony