Neck, Trapezius & Shoulder Blade Pain
Muscular and myofascial pain affecting the neck, trapezius and shoulder-blade region can have different causes. An individual orthopaedic assessment helps determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Persistent Musculoskeletal Tension · Clinical Recognition
Neck, Trapezius or Shoulder Blade Pain?
Pain around the upper back, neck and scapula is one of the most frequent musculoskeletal complaints among active adults, office workers and expats. Symptoms commonly present as:
These symptoms can have different causes. Muscular myofascial pain is only one possibility, which is why individual clinical assessment is essential before initiating any interventional treatment.
Musculoskeletal Anatomy & Myofascial Pain Distribution
Which Muscles May Be Involved?
Pain in this region rarely occurs in isolation. It frequently involves one or more interconnected muscular and myofascial structures:
Trapezius
Superior, middle and lower fibres. Supports the neck, head movement and shoulder blade elevation.
Levator Scapulae
Connects the cervical vertebrae to the superior border of the scapula. Highly vulnerable to tension and postural overload.
Rhomboids
Minor and major rhomboids. Sit between the thoracic spine and medial scapular edge, controlling scapular retraction.
Serratus Anterior
Evaluated when clinically indicated, especially in cases with scapular winging or anterior-lateral chest pain.
Clinical Principle: Pain in this region may involve one or more muscular structures. Treatment is selected according to individual clinical findings rather than simply treating the location of the pain.
Ultrasound-Guided Injections · Minimally Invasive & Steroid-Free
Targeted Treatment Options
Depending on the findings of your clinical evaluation, targeted interventions may be discussed:
Myofascial Trigger Point Injection
A targeted injection may be considered for painful muscular trigger points following clinical assessment. Treatment may involve a local anaesthetic such as lidocaine when clinically appropriate.
Regenerative PRP Treatment
Autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) uses components obtained from the patient's own blood and may be considered in selected persistent or recurrent musculoskeletal cases.
Clear Private Pricing · Trigger Point Injections (€290) & PRP (€550)
Not Sure Which Option Is Right for You?
Book an orthopaedic assessment to review your symptoms, history and imaging. We'll confirm whether a targeted injection, PRP or conservative rehabilitation is the most appropriate path.
Direct communication · Private consultations across Costa Blanca · No GP referral required
Precision When Ultrasound Guidance Is Appropriate
Ultrasound may be used when clinically appropriate to identify relevant anatomical structures and guide targeted injections.
The objective is precision and appropriate treatment planning, not simply injecting a large volume of product. High-resolution musculoskeletal ultrasound allows direct visualization of fascial planes, muscle bundles, adjacent neurovascular structures and deep anatomical targets such as the levator scapulae or rhomboid planes.
Ultrasound-Guided Technique
Diagnostic & Interventional Accuracy
Ultrasound examination also assists in ruling out structural abnormalities such as bursitis, tendon tears, or localized fluid collections in the periscapular region before deciding on an injection.
Your Assessment Comes First
We never perform injections without a prior clinical evaluation. Our 4-step pathway ensures that treatment is safe, rational and tailored to your exact condition:
Medical Assessment
Thorough clinical examination, symptom timeline, palpation of trigger points, and functional range of motion testing.
Imaging Review
Previous X-rays, cervical MRI scans or ultrasounds can be reviewed in clinic to evaluate structural causes.
Personalised Plan
The appropriate treatment option—injection, PRP, physiotherapy, or further studies—is discussed based on clinical findings.
Follow-Up & Care
Response to treatment is assessed and further sessions or rehabilitation steps are considered only when clinically appropriate.
Further Diagnostic Imaging: Further imaging, including cervical MRI, may be requested when clinically indicated to investigate possible cervical disc herniation, nerve root compression, facet arthropathy or other structural spinal pathology.
Who May Benefit From a Targeted Approach?
This type of treatment may be considered for selected patients with symptoms consistent with muscular or myofascial pain that has persisted despite rest or basic physical measures.
Important: It may not be appropriate when symptoms are caused by another underlying condition such as cervical radiculopathy, neurological deficit or structural joint tears. Clinical assessment is mandatory beforehand.
Non-Surgical Orthopaedic Care
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment is never limited to a single modality. We integrate evidence-informed non-surgical options:
Injections are one tool among several and are not presented as universally preferable to comprehensive physical rehabilitation.
Clear Private Treatment Prices
Transparent pricing for self-pay international patients on the Costa Blanca. No hidden surprises.
Myofascial Trigger Point Injection
Targeted local anaesthetic (e.g. lidocaine)
Includes clinical injection procedure and materials. Initial consultation required.
Regenerative PRP Treatment
Autologous platelet-rich plasma preparation
Includes blood draw, closed-system centrifugation and targeted application.
Price Disclaimer: Prices shown are indicative private-patient prices. Final treatment recommendations and quotations are confirmed following individual clinical assessment and may vary depending on the diagnosis, number of trigger points, imaging guidance requirements, or combined procedures.
A Specialist Approach to Musculoskeletal Problems
Individual Assessment
We dedicate time to understand your medical history, symptoms and personal goals.
Evidence-Informed Planning
Rational treatment pathways based on established orthopaedic protocols.
Modern Minimally Invasive Techniques
Direct targeted procedures performed with ultrasound guidance when appropriate.
Clear Explanation of Options
Transparent discussions regarding expectations, alternatives and follow-up.
Private Orthopaedic Care
Direct access to private specialist consultations without long administrative delays.
English-Speaking Communication
Consultations and follow-up conducted fluently in English for international patients.
Questions About Neck & Shoulder Blade Pain
Not Sure What Is Causing Your Neck or Shoulder Blade Pain?
Book an orthopaedic assessment and discuss your options with our English-speaking team.
TRAUMATOLOGYTEAM
ADVANCED ORTHOPAEDIC CARE
Medical Notice: Information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute individual medical advice. Assessment and treatment are performed exclusively by licensed medical professionals following consultation.