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Painful, snapping scapula what doctor?

I have had chronic, daily pain in my left scapula for years, it has increased significantly in the past couple of months to the point that it is unbearable at times.  I've been taking ultram, neurontin, motrin, and skelaxin for it which has helped a little.  I've been using ice & heat, and have been trying to do stretching and strengthening exercises to help.  None of these conservitive measures are helping my pain, and I feel that I need to see a specialist.  What kind of doctor do I need to see for this.  If there is a surgical option, what kind of doctor would do the surgery?  I'm guessing orthopedics, but not sure if this is right.  Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
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Avatar universal
Thanks runninggrl, I'm going to try the tennis ball thing :o)
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Avatar universal
Thanks,
actually had an MRI of cervical spine, and although it showed a disc herniation, there was no evidence of nerve impingement.  Talked to a neurosurgeon, and he doesn't think I need any kind of cervical spine surgery.  I've been thru all of the "usual things" and still no pain relief, and no answers.   All I'm having is painful, snapping scapula every day.  I've seen pcp, pain management doctor, neurosurgeon, chiropractor, physical therapist.  My question is what type of doctor would specialize in the scapula if it's truly a scapula disorder and not a radicular pain from the neck.    Thanks everyone for your help so far, and if there are any other suggestions I'd really appreciate them.
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Avatar universal
I had similar pain and had my primary care doctor order an MRI.  I tried PT, chiropractor, acupuncture, and nerve meds for years, but eventually was referred to a surgeon.  I had an anterior discectomy with fusion 3 weeks ago.  Most of the pain is gone. :)   After the MRI, you will probably need to see a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon who specializes in spine disorders.  Good luck!  I wish you pain free days ahead.  Suggestion from my PT while you are waiting for diagnosis:  Put a tennis ball on the wall where your scapula is, and stand with your back against the wall (tennis ball between you and the wall) and move up and down.  It helps massage and loosen up the muscles.
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454186 tn?1388974968
Do you have neck pain?

Basically, I don't think surgery is best solution. Most of scapula pain was due to soft tissue injuries around neck and shoulder blade. Deep and intensive acupuncture may help.Good luck!
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