Ache between the shoulder blades
A localised or broad ache that gradually increases during computer work.
YEONSEICHIROPRACTIC & PILATESDesk-worker guide · Upper back
Upper-back tension during desk work.
Aching or tightness between the shoulder blades can build during concentrated computer work, long meetings or commuting. The pattern may relate to sustained load, limited movement variety, the neck or shoulder—not simply a need to ‘sit up straight.’
- Initial treatment included
- HICAPS available
- 30 minutes · $101.50
Understanding your symptoms
Pain between the shoulder blades can have more than one contributor.
The upper back, neck, ribs, shoulders and surrounding muscles all share load during desk work. Symptoms can change with reaching, breathing, rotation, prolonged sitting or stress. Assessment is useful when pain persists, repeatedly returns or cannot be explained by a simple short-lived change in activity.
Desk-worker guides
Start with the symptom that best matches your workday.
These practical guides explain common symptom patterns, sensible workday changes and when an assessment may be appropriate.
Desk-related neck pain
Neck stiffness and discomfort during computer, laptop or phone use.
Read the guideBack pain when sitting
Lower-back symptoms during sitting, commuting and standing up.
Read the guideArm or hand tingling at a desk
Tingling, numbness and nerve-related symptoms during desk work.
Read the guideComplete desk-worker care guide
See the full assessment and care approach for office workers.
Read the guideReasons people book
Ways upper-back symptoms may appear through the workday.
The location and behaviour of symptoms are useful information, but do not confirm a diagnosis on their own.
Tension after meetings
Stiffness after sitting still, video calls, studying or driving for extended periods.
Symptoms with reaching
Discomfort during repeated mouse use, reaching for equipment or working with the arms forward.
Pain with rotation
Upper-back discomfort when twisting, looking behind or changing position.
Neck and shoulder overlap
Symptoms that extend into the neck, shoulders or base of the skull rather than staying in one spot.
End-of-day fatigue
A heavy or tired feeling that affects exercise, sleep or activity after work.
Practical approach
Use movement variety and task changes instead of chasing a perfect posture.
The most useful adjustment depends on what changes your symptoms.
Break up long work blocks
Brief walking, shoulder or upper-back movement can add variety before tension becomes intense.
Reduce repeated reaching
Keep frequently used equipment within comfortable reach and alternate input methods where practical.
Support the task
Adjust the chair, desk or screen so the work can be completed without continually holding the arms or head forward.
Restore capacity
Graded upper-back, shoulder and trunk exercise may be included when appropriate to your examination.
Your initial appointment
Assessment, explanation and treatment in one visit.
Treatment is included in every initial consultation after the assessment, when clinically appropriate and with your consent.
History
We discuss the location and timing of symptoms, work tasks, breaks, workstation setup, breathing or chest symptoms, previous episodes, exercise and medical history.
Assessment
The examination may include upper-back, neck, rib and shoulder movement, relevant neurological tests, strength and work-related movements that reproduce symptoms.
Explanation
Dr Kevin explains which findings appear relevant, what can be managed conservatively and whether medical review or further investigation is appropriate.
Treatment
Every initial consultation includes treatment after assessment. With consent, care may include mobilisation, manipulation, soft-tissue therapy and guided mobility or strengthening exercise.
Individualised care
Treatment can address the person and the work demands—not only the sore spot.
Depending on the findings, care may involve the upper back, neck, shoulders or ribs, alongside exercise and practical workday strategies. Progress is reviewed against function, comfort and the activities that matter to you.
Upper-back pain has different causes. No particular result can be guaranteed, and referral is recommended when symptoms require medical investigation or fall outside chiropractic care.
Your chiropractor
Dr Kevin Park
Dr Kevin Park assesses desk-related neck, upper-back, shoulder and nerve symptoms. Care is matched to the clinical findings, preferences and work demands of each patient.
Meet Dr Kevin ParkFrequently asked questions
Questions about upper-back tension and desk work.
Why do I feel tension between my shoulder blades at work?+
Prolonged time in one position, repeated reaching, the neck or shoulders, workload and individual physical capacity can all contribute. Assessment is needed to identify what is most relevant in your case.
Is slouching causing my upper-back pain?+
Not necessarily. A position may aggravate symptoms without being the only cause. Staying in any one posture for a long time can become uncomfortable, so movement variety is often more useful than rigidly holding one position.
Can a standing desk fix upper-back tension?+
A standing desk provides another position but is not a guaranteed solution. Alternating between comfortable positions and changing tasks may be more useful than standing all day.
Could the pain come from my neck or shoulder?+
Yes. The neck, shoulders, ribs and upper back can produce overlapping symptoms. The assessment considers these areas rather than assuming the painful spot is the only source.
When should upper-back pain be checked urgently?+
Seek urgent medical assessment when pain is associated with chest pain, breathing difficulty, sweating, faintness, fever, major trauma or progressive weakness or numbness.
What may treatment include?+
Depending on the findings and your preferences, care may include mobilisation, manipulation, soft-tissue therapy, mobility work and progressive strengthening.
Is treatment included at the initial consultation?+
Yes. The initial consultation includes treatment following the assessment, with your consent and when appropriate to the findings.
General patient information: Healthdirect — upper-back pain · Healthdirect — posture at home and work · Safe Work Australia — sitting and standing
Book at Yeonsei
Start with a clear assessment and an individual plan.
Suite 204, Level 2, Strathfield Plaza · Two minutes from Strathfield Station
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