At a glance
What it is
Pain in the upper limb from joint injury, nerve compression, or referred causes from the neck or heart.
Symptoms
Aching, sharp or radiating pain; may include numbness, weakness, or swelling depending on cause.
Approach
Clinical exam to locate the source; imaging and targeted treatment when indicated.
Overview
Arm pain can be caused by a wide variety of problems, ranging from joint injuries to compressed nerves. Depending on the cause, arm pain can start suddenly or develop over time.
When the problem is elsewhere
In many cases, arm pain actually originates from a problem in your neck or upper spine. Arm pain, particularly pain that radiates into your left arm, can even be a sign of a heart attack.
Common causes
Possible causes of arm pain include:
- Angina (reduced blood flow to the heart) - Brachial plexus injury - Broken arm - Broken wrist - Bursitis (joint inflammation) - Carpal tunnel syndrome - Cervical disk herniation - De Quervain's tenosynovitis - Dislocated elbow - Fibromyalgia - Heart attack - Rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory joint disease) - Rotator cuff injury - Sprains - Tendinitis - Tennis elbow - Thoracic outlet syndrome - Ulnar nerve entrapment
Related reading
Brachial plexus injuries
Injuries to the nerve network supplying the shoulder, arm and hand, from stretching to root avulsion. Treated with physiotherapy, neuromodulation or surgery.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing numbness, tingling and weakness in the thumb and fingers. Treated with splints, injections or surgery.
Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain
Widespread muscle pain that routine scans don't explain. Most of it comes from muscle and fascia, and is treatable once the source is found.
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Wear of the tendon on the outer elbow, causing pain when gripping or lifting, usually at 30–50. Treated with physiotherapy, injections and radiofrequency.
Book a consultation
The secretary schedules first appointments during clinic hours; please have prior imaging, operative notes and a current medication list available at the time of the call.
This page provides general information about arm pain and is not a substitute for individual medical assessment. If your symptoms are severe or worsening, contact a clinician promptly.