Shoulder and Elbow Pain
Shoulders and elbows are prone to pain. Due to certain activities and conditions, these body parts may suffer from mild to severe pain. The pain may be caused by an injury, a strenuous activity, or an underlying condition. Some shoulder and elbow pain are not a cause of concern and just normally go away after a few days of self-care and rest.
Shoulder and Elbow Pain Symptoms
The pain in the shoulder and elbow can be mild to severe. Aside from the pain, and depending on the underlying cause, the pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as stiffness, redness, swelling, and in some cases, fever and a general feeling of being ill.
Different Conditions with Shoulder or Elbow Pain
However, there are instances when the shoulder and/or elbow pain may need immediate medical intervention. This is when the pain is associated with other serious symptoms which could mean that there is an underlying condition causing the problem. The common conditions that cause shoulder or elbow pain are the following:
-
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This is a condition characterized by pain in the hand and arm, which may radiate to the elbow and up. The pain is usually associated by numbness and tingling sensation. Other symptoms include discomfort in the pal and rest. This condition is caused by a compressed nerve located in the carpal tunnel.
-
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain may be caused by overuse, inactivity, exertion or other activities. It may also be a symptom of an underlying condition such as arthritis. The pain may be dull, achy, sharp or severe. The onset may be gradual or sudden, depending on what caused the pain. The pain is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as stiffness, muscle spasm, tingling, numbing, arm or shoulder weakness, and/or swelling.
-
Tennis Elbow
Contrary to its name, tennis elbow is not caused by “tennis,” though it is common among tennis players. This condition is a swelling of the tendons which causes pain in the arm and elbow. The pain affects the elbow and radiates to the lower or upper arm. It may also limit your movement in your arms and hands. Aside from the pain, you may experience tenderness in the affected area as well.
-
Shoulder Arthritis
Arthritis in the shoulder is commonly a type of osteoarthritis. In rare cases, it is a rheumatoid type. People with shoulder arthritis experience pain in the shoulder and the surrounding areas. The pain is likely to worsen with certain activities, particularly those involving the use of the shoulders and arms. The pain may decrease when resting. This type of arthritis may also limit the motion of people. When moving, the person with shoulder arthritis may experience a grinding feeling, the sound that bones make when they rub one another.
-
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow is a condition not limited to people playing golf. The most common symptom of this condition is pain on the inner side of the elbow. The pain sometimes extends to the inner side of the forearm. The pain is likely to worsen with certain activities and movements. Other symptoms of golfer’s elbow include weakness, stiffness, numbness, and tingling of the affected areas.
Book Appointment
Managing shoulder and elbow pain depends on the cause of the pain. The pain specialist will determine the other symptoms and diagnose the underlying condition, if any. The treatment varies depending on whether the pain is caused by injury, overuse or a medical condition. The best way to find out is to see a medical professional.
If you experience pain in your shoulder or elbow, don’t panic. Chances are, the pain will just go away on its own after a few days of self-care and rest. However, if the pain is severe and if you experience other symptoms which you may think are a cause of concern, the safest way is to seek immediate medical help.
If you want your shoulder or elbow pain checked and treated, contact a trusted, experienced pain specialist. Make an appointment with Arizona Pain and Spine Institute.