Pain that moves from the front of one’s shoulder to the side of the arm – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
Book Appointment Pain that moves from the front of one’s shoulder to the side of the arm – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment at Emirates Hospital Group
Pain migrating from the front of the shoulder to the side of the arm can significantly impact daily life, limiting activities like reaching, lifting, and even sleeping comfortably. This type of pain can stem from various sources, including rotator cuff tears, biceps tendonitis, or even nerve impingement. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like weakness, numbness, or fever. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your overall quality of life. Physical therapy often plays a key role in recovery, focusing on exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve range of motion.
Causes:
- Rotator Cuff Tears: Injury to muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint.
- Biceps Tendonitis: Inflammation of the biceps tendon.
- Shoulder Impingement: Compression of tendons by bone.
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Pinched nerve in the neck.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Affects nerves and blood vessels between collarbone and rib.
- Referred Pain (Less Common): From certain heart conditions.
Diagnosis:
- Physical Examination: Assessing range of motion, tenderness, pain reproduction.
- Patient History: Onset, duration, associated injuries/activities.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, CT scans to visualize structures.
- Nerve Conduction Studies: To assess nerve function (if suspected nerve involvement).
Treatment:
- Rest: Avoiding aggravating activities.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription medications.
- Ice/Heat Therapy: To reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises for strength, flexibility, range of motion.
- Injections (e.g., Corticosteroids): To reduce inflammation.
- Surgery (In Severe Cases): For tears, nerve compression, structural problems.
Important Considerations:
- Consult a healthcare professional for persistent/severe pain.
- Prompt diagnosis/treatment can prevent complications.
- Seek immediate medical attention for sudden, severe chest pain with other heart attack symptoms.
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