Arm pain can have many different causes, ranging from minor issues to serious medical conditions. Common causes include:
- Muscle strain or overuse from heavy lifting or repetitive activities
- Tendonitis, which is inflammation of the tendons (e.g., tennis elbow)
- Rotator cuff injury affecting shoulder muscles and tendons
- Bone fractures or joint dislocations from trauma
- Bursitis, inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning joints
- Pinched nerves in the neck or spine causing radiating pain and numbness
- Carpal tunnel syndrome due to nerve compression in the wrist
- Arthritis, including osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Cardiac-related causes such as angina or heart attack, where pain may radiate to the arm
- Other less common causes like infections, fibromyalgia, or thoracic outlet syndrome
Symptoms accompanying the arm pain can include numbness, tingling, weakness, redness, swelling, stiffness, and muscle cramps or tenderness. Diagnosing the cause typically requires a physical examination and might include imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs, nerve studies, and blood tests to target the underlying condition accurately. If arm pain is severe, sudden, or associated with symptoms such as chest pain, weakness, or numbness, immediate medical attention is recommended as it could indicate a heart attack or other serious condition. For persistent or unclear arm pain, seeing a healthcare professional for a detailed evaluation is advisable.
