Question
Hello Dr.,
Many years ago I was in a near fatal car accident in which among other things, I 'jammed' my right shoulder by instinctively placing my hand on the dash.  I've been prone to easily injuring that shoulder since.  I also have a 'weak back' as well as polymyalgia.  
The other day I woke up with lower back pain (due, I'm sure, to a mattress that needs replacing).  It was sore and stiff, so I took a hot shower.  While washing my hair, with my hands on my head, there was a huge 'pop' in my mid back, right side, along the spine and shoulder.  (is that the trapezius or rhomboid?).  In any event, this is not the first time I've strained that area, but, it is the first time I recall any type of defining 'snap' moment.  I've used a heating pad, taken extra strength Tylenol, and even had a friend who has had some training in massage therapy work the area.  I'm doing some gentle stretching, but it is getting worse, not better.  The pain is radiating to my right arm, and I've not had that before with previous 'strains'.  Should I keep doing what I'm doing and just wait for it to go away?  I ask because in addition to the pain there is a fatigued feeling that is different than I've experienced, and the arm pain/stiffness is a bit worrisome.  Thank you.

Answer
Without a proper exam I can't give you an exact answer, but you could have "subluxed" a rib, put it "out of place".  I would seek a chiropractic evaluation and treatment.  We are able to treat such symptoms you are describing without drugs or surgery.  They would also be able to help you with the shoulder issues.  If you have any other questions or concerns or need help locating a good chiropractor, email me.

Dr. Starbuck