Arm pain is a common symptom with many possible causes. It refers to pain, discomfort, or soreness anywhere from the shoulder down to the fingers. It can begin suddenly or develop gradually over time. Some cases are mild and clear up with simple home care, but others point to a more serious health condition that needs prompt attention.
Causes of Arm Pain
Arm pain can come from many parts of the body, including the muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, nerves, veins, joints, and skin. The causes range widely from minor strains to conditions that require immediate treatment.
Overuse is one of the most common causes. Repeated motions can lead to conditions such as bursitis, tendonitis, rotator cuff tears, tennis elbow, and golfer’s elbow. Injuries are another frequent source. These include fractures of the upper arm or wrist, sprains, carpal tunnel syndrome, and brachial plexus injuries from sudden trauma like a fall or car accident.
Other pain sources include arthritis, nerve, and structural problems, and some pain originates from the heart. Angina, blood clots, and heart attack can cause chest pain that radiates to the arms.
Symptoms
Arm pain can feel different depending on its cause. The main symptom is pain, but discomfort and soreness are also common. Other symptoms often appear alongside the pain. These can include numbness, swelling, and itching. Some people notice difficulty moving the arm. The pain may start suddenly, or it may build gradually over days or weeks. Tracking how and when the pain appears can help doctors identify the likely cause.
Treatment
Treatment for arm pain depends on the cause. Mild pain, such as discomfort from overuse, can often be managed at home using the RICE method.
- Rest the arm as much as possible.
- Ice the area for 15 minutes at a time.
- Compress the arm by gently wrapping it in a bandage.
- Elevate the arm above the level of the heart.
Gentle stretching and massaging of the arm muscles can also help relieve mild pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers are another option. These include acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
A suspected fracture calls for a different approach. Placing the arm in a splint can keep it still until medical care is available. For other types of pain that do not improve with home care, a healthcare provider can recommend the right treatment.
When to See a Doctor
Many cases improve with rest and an over-the-counter pain reliever. Still, some situations call for medical attention.
See a healthcare provider or seek medical care if you have any of the following:
- Severe arm, shoulder, or back pain that starts suddenly or occurs with chest pain or pressure. This may signal a heart attack, and you should seek immediate medical attention.
- An obvious injury to your arm, wrist, or hand.
- Arm, shoulder, or back pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
- Severe pain and swelling.
- Difficulty moving your arm the way you normally can.
- Arm pain that does not improve with at-home care.
If your symptoms match any of these, contact a provider promptly so the cause can be checked and treated.
