Soft TissueInjury Desk
Torso · shoulder girdle

Soft-tissue pain often shows up as lost function.

Shoulder, upper-back, and low-back injuries can be understood through movement, tenderness, strength, and activity limits—not pain language alone.

Reviewed October 15, 20266 minute read
01

Describe the movement

Instead of writing only “my back hurts,” identify what triggers symptoms: lifting, reaching overhead, driving, sleeping, sitting, bending, or carrying. Note whether pain stays local or travels into an arm or leg.

02

Separate new from old

Be accurate about prior symptoms or treatment. A clear baseline helps a clinician distinguish a new injury, an aggravation, and an unrelated condition. Do not minimize or exaggerate either history.

03

Escalate warning signs

Seek prompt medical attention for severe or worsening symptoms, marked weakness, loss of sensation, loss of bladder or bowel control, visible deformity, or inability to bear weight. This site cannot assess an emergency.

Get medical help first.

Call 911 or seek urgent care for severe or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, confusion, weakness, loss of sensation, or any emergency. This site cannot assess your condition.