In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about latissimus dorsi pain and the most effective ways to treat it, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.
The latissimus dorsi is a large, flat “V”-shaped muscle running the length of your back. It stabilizes the shoulder and, along with the levator scapulae, trapezius, and rhomboids, forms the superficial layer of the extrinsic back muscles. Injury or overuse can cause pain in the lower, mid, or upper back, shoulder blade, or even radiate down the arm and into the fingers.
Table of Contents
- What Does Latissimus Dorsi Pain Feel Like?
- What Causes Latissimus Dorsi Pain?
- How Is This Discomfort Alleviated?
- Can Latissimus Dorsi Pain Be Avoided?
- Treatment of Latissimus Dorsi Pain
- Preventing Injuries to the Latissimus Dorsi
- The Bottom Line
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact ProHealth Clinic
- Author Bio
- References
What Does Latissimus Dorsi Pain Feel Like?
Latissimus dorsi pain can be hard to distinguish from other back or shoulder pain. It may be felt in the upper or lower arm, shoulder, or back, and worsens with stretching or reaching. The pain may also radiate to the inside of the arm and fingers. Restricted motion, especially with extension, adduction, or horizontal abduction, is common. If you have difficulty breathing, fever, or abdominal pain with lat pain, seek medical attention as these may indicate a more serious condition.
What Causes Latissimus Dorsi Pain?
Common causes include overuse, poor technique, or lack of warm-up before activity. Sports and activities that frequently cause latissimus dorsi pain include:
- Gymnastics
- Baseball
- Tennis
- Rowing
- Swimming
- Chopping wood or shoveling snow
- Chin-ups and pull-ups
Poor posture or slouching can also contribute. Tears are rare and usually occur in professional athletes or after major trauma. Tight or overactive lats can also cause anterior pelvic tilt and contribute to low back pain.
How Is This Discomfort Alleviated?
Rest and physical therapy are the mainstays of treatment. The RICE protocol is often recommended:
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activity and give your back and shoulders a break.
- Ice: Apply a cold pack to the affected area.
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage if needed.
- Elevation: Sit upright or use cushions to elevate the upper back and shoulder.
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can help with pain and inflammation. Cryotherapy, acupuncture, and trigger point release may also be beneficial. If pain is severe or persistent, your doctor may recommend stronger medication or, rarely, surgery.
Can Latissimus Dorsi Pain Be Avoided?
Yes—especially if you exercise or play sports regularly. Tips include:
- Maintain good posture and avoid slouching
- Stay hydrated, especially before and after activity
- Get regular massages to relieve muscle tension
- Warm up and stretch before exercise
- Use a heating pad before activity and cool down after
Treatment of Latissimus Dorsi Pain
Physical therapy is key for regaining function. Once pain and swelling subside, a therapist can guide you through exercises to restore strength and range of motion. Most cases resolve without surgery, even in athletes. Techniques like “spray and stretch” and passive stretching can help relieve muscle tightness.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat Latissimus Dorsi Pain.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative benefits. Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles, stimulating the production of collagen cells needed to repair damage and help Latissimus Dorsi Pain. As prolotherapy treats the root cause, it is considered a permanent fix, preventing symptoms from returning.
Preventing Injuries to the Latissimus Dorsi
Strengthening and stretching exercises, such as pull-ups, lat pulldowns, and resistance “`html
workouts, can help prevent latissimus dorsi injuries. Activities like hillwalking, cycling, and weightlifting build muscle mass and endurance. Regular stretching (including neck stretches and rotations) enhances flexibility and reduces the risk of tightness or strain. Maintaining an active lifestyle and proper movement patterns is essential for long-term back and shoulder health.
Proper assessment of the latissimus dorsi is crucial for those with upper body or low back pain, as a shortened or stiff lat can alter biomechanics and worsen conditions like L4 L5 disc bulge. MRI may be used to evaluate the extent of injury and guide treatment recommendations.
The Bottom Line
Latissimus dorsi pain can be debilitating, but most cases improve with rest, physical therapy, and targeted exercises. If pain persists or is severe, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and advanced treatments like Prolotherapy. Early intervention and prevention strategies are key to maintaining a strong, pain-free back and upper body.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my latissimus dorsi hurt?
Overuse, poor technique, lack of warm-up, or trauma are common causes. Activities like throwing, pulling, or repetitive sports can strain the muscle.
How do you treat a sore latissimus dorsi?
Rest, avoid aggravating activities, use ice packs, elevate the area, and consider physical therapy. NSAIDs can help with pain and inflammation.
How long does a latissimus dorsi strain take to heal?
- Grade 1: 2–3 weeks
- Grade 2: At least 4 weeks
- Grade 3: May require surgery and longer recovery
What does a latissimus dorsi strain feel like?
Pain in the lower, mid, or upper back, rear of the shoulder, or base of the scapula. Pain may radiate down the arm to the fingers.
What muscle is deep to the latissimus dorsi?
The serratus posterior muscle lies deep to the latissimus dorsi.
What causes tight latissimus dorsi?
Overuse, repetitive throwing or pulling, and inadequate warm-up are common causes. Tightness can also result from poor posture or muscle imbalances.
Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
Don’t let Latissimus Dorsi Pain control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.
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Author Bio
References
- Acute Musculotendinous Tears of the Latissimus Dorsi and Teres Major. (2011, November 1). https://radsource.us/acute-musculotendinous-tears/
- Çelebi, M. M., Ergen, E., & Üstu?Ner, E. (2013). Acute Traumatic Tear of Latissimus Dorsi Muscle in an Elite Track Athlete. Clinics and Practice, 3(2), e15. https://doi.org/10.4081/cp.2013.e15
- Gerber, C., Maquieira, G., & Espinosa, N. (2006). Latissimus dorsi transfer for the treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears. JBJS, 88(1), 113–120.
- Livesey, J. P., Brownson, P., & Wallace, W. A. (2002). Traumatic latissimus dorsi tendon rupture. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 11(6), 642–644.
- Mehdi, S. K., Frangiamore, S. J., & Schickendantz, M. S. (2016). Latissimus Dorsi and Teres Major Injuries in Major League Baseball Pitchers: A Systematic Review. American Journal of Orthopedics (Belle Mead, N.J.), 45(3), 163–167.