Experiencing pain when raising your arm can be a common and often concerning issue. This discomfort frequently stems from problems within the shoulder joint or surrounding structures. Understanding the potential reasons behind this pain helps individuals seek appropriate care.
Common Reasons for Pain
Pain when raising the arm often originates from issues within the complex shoulder joint. One frequent cause involves the rotator cuff, a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Rotator cuff tendinitis, an inflammation of these tendons, leads to pain and stiffness, particularly when lifting or lowering the arm. Tears in the rotator cuff tendons, from injury or degeneration, also cause pain, weakness, and difficulty moving the arm, often worsening at night.
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when rotator cuff tendons or the bursa (a fluid-filled sac) become pinched between shoulder bones. This results in pain when extending the arm overhead, lifting or lowering it, or reaching behind the back. Subacromial bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa beneath the acromion, often accompanies impingement or occurs due to repetitive overhead activities. This presents as a dull aching pain, especially when lifting the arm above the head, and may include a clicking sensation.
Muscle strains, such as those affecting the deltoid or trapezius, can also contribute to arm pain when raised. Overuse or sudden injury can lead to localized pain and tenderness. Nerve compression is another potential cause, where nerves traveling from the neck down the arm become pinched or irritated. For example, cervical radiculopathy, from neck issues, can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating into the arm and hand.
Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib are compressed. This can lead to pain, tingling, or weakness in the shoulder and arm, often worsening with overhead movements. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis in the shoulder joint, can also cause pain and reduced mobility when raising the arm. This condition involves cartilage breakdown, leading to painful bone-on-bone friction.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical attention for arm pain that does not improve with home care or is accompanied by specific symptoms. A medical evaluation is recommended for severe or sudden pain, especially after injury or fall. Any visible deformity, significant swelling, or unusual angle to the arm or shoulder also warrants immediate consultation.
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand, particularly if radiating from the shoulder, suggests potential nerve involvement and requires assessment. Pain that worsens over time or does not improve after a few days of self-care also indicates the need for professional advice. If arm pain is accompanied by fever or signs of infection, such as worsening redness or discharge, prompt medical attention is necessary.
Initial Home Care Approaches
For many instances of arm pain, initial home care can help manage symptoms. Rest is fundamental, meaning avoiding activities that aggravate pain. However, complete immobilization should be avoided, as gentle movement can prevent stiffness.
Applying ice to the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and discomfort. After the initial acute phase, heat therapy can relax muscles and improve blood flow. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen, can alleviate pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen is also an option.
Gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises, if pain allows, can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness. These should be performed without pushing through pain. Practicing proper posture and ergonomics, especially when sitting or performing repetitive tasks, can reduce strain on the shoulders and arms.
Professional Diagnosis and Treatment Options
When home care is insufficient, a healthcare professional will begin with a thorough physical examination and medical history. They will assess range of motion, strength, and tenderness. Imaging tests may be ordered; X-rays identify bone issues like fractures or arthritis, while MRI and ultrasound are effective for soft tissue assessment, such as rotator cuff tears, tendinitis, or bursitis. Nerve conduction studies might be performed if nerve compression is suspected.
Treatment options vary depending on diagnosis and severity. Physical therapy is frequently recommended, involving exercises to strengthen shoulder muscles, improve range of motion, and correct biomechanical issues. Medications beyond over-the-counter options may include prescription anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants.
Corticosteroid injections, often containing a steroid and a local anesthetic, can be administered to reduce inflammation and pain, providing temporary relief. These injections can also facilitate physical therapy. Lifestyle modifications, such as activity modification and ergonomic adjustments, are important to prevent recurrence. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief, particularly for severe rotator cuff tears or chronic impingement. Surgical procedures might involve repairing torn tendons, removing inflamed tissue, or creating more space.