Question
I have pain like an extreme tightness directly on and below my left shoulder blade/upper left back area. Right side and all other areas of my back feel fine.  When I drink alcohol the pain intensifies for a few days, but then subsides to occasional pain.  Sometimes when pressing my back against my high back couch, I also have extreme pain especially a day after drinking a few beers.  I am 50  year old female, with no other medical problems & I only drink about every couple of months.  Could this pain signal some kind of gastric problem?  Thank you.

Answer
Rebe,
Alcohol usually affects the liver or kidneys although the referred pain that you are talking is common to come from the Gall Bladder.
You also could just have a musculoskeletal problem in that area and you are noticing it more when you drink.
The best way to find out the answer to this problem is to visit with your local Doctor of Chiropractic, if you have one or know of one then that should be a good start.  Otherwise I can help you to find a good one if you would like.
In Your Best Interest,
Dr Robert Arnone
St Louis, MO 63141