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Pain when the arms are extended above the head – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Pain when the arms are extended above the head – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

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Pain when the arms are extended above the head – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
Home / Pain when the arms are extended above the head – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Pain when the arms are extended above the head – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment at Emirates Hospital Group

Pain experienced when raising the arms overhead can significantly impact daily activities. Understanding the potential causes, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial for managing this discomfort. This type of pain can make everyday tasks, such as reaching for shelves or combing your hair, a struggle. It’s important to seek professional medical advice to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to alleviate the pain and restore function.

Causes:

  • Rotator Cuff Tears: Tears in the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles are a common cause of pain with overhead reaching.
  • Shoulder Impingement: This occurs when tendons are compressed by bone during overhead movements.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) in the shoulder can lead to pain with reaching overhead.
  • Biceps Tendinitis: Inflammation of the biceps tendon can also cause pain when raising the arm.
  • Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): This condition restricts shoulder movement, making overhead reaching painful.
  • AC Joint Arthritis: Arthritis in the acromioclavicular joint can cause pain with overhead activities.
  • Neck Problems: Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve) can sometimes cause referred pain in the shoulder and arm.
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition affects nerves and blood vessels in the space between the collarbone and first rib, sometimes causing pain with overhead arm movements.

Diagnosis:

  • Physical Exam: Assessing range of motion, tenderness, and specific movements that reproduce the pain.
  • Patient History: Gathering information about the onset, duration, nature of the pain, and any related injuries or activities.
  • Imaging: X-rays or MRI scans to visualize bones and soft tissues.

Treatment:

  • Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain.
  • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication.
  • Ice/Heat: Applying ice or heat to the affected area.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
  • Surgery: May be necessary in some cases, like severe rotator cuff tears.

Important Considerations:

  • Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe pain.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are important.

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