Yes, pneumonia can cause back and shoulder pain, often in the upper back between the shoulder blades. This is due to inflammation of the lung lining (pleurisy), lung irritation affecting surrounding nerves, and potentially referred pain from the lungs to the spine and shoulders. Additionally, the phrenic nerve, which connects the lungs to the spine and shoulders, can cause pain to radiate from the lungs to the back and shoulders.
Can Pneumonia Cause Back And Shoulder Pain?
Table of Contents
Pneumonia Cause
Pleurisy
Pneumonia can cause inflammation of the pleura, the lining of the lungs and inner chest wall, leading to pain that can be felt in the back and chest. This pain may be sharp, stabbing, or dull and aching, and it can worsen with movement, coughing, or deep breathing.
Lung Irritation
Lung inflammation can irritate the nerves that innervate the chest wall, potentially causing pain in the back and shoulder.
Referred Pain
The phrenic nerve, which connects the lungs to the diaphragm, spine, and neck/shoulder, can transmit pain from the lungs to the back and shoulder.
Muscle Strain from Coughing
The frequent and forceful coughing associated with pneumonia can strain muscles in the back, contributing to back and shoulder pain.
Severity of Pain
The severity of pain can vary, from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain, and it may worsen with activity.
Symptoms
Back and shoulder pain from pneumonia is often accompanied by other respiratory symptoms like coughing, chest congestion, and shortness of breath.
