Common Causes of Upper Arm Discomfort
Upper arm pain can arise from various causes, including muscle strain, shoulder injuries, or fractures. Rest and medical consultation are vital for recovery. Recognizing the underlying cause helps ensure appropriate treatment and relief.
Common Causes of Discomfort in the Upper Arm
Experiencing pain in your upper arm can hinder daily tasks and physical activities. Sometimes the discomfort is due to obvious reasons like lifting heavy objects or injury, but other times, it may stem from less apparent issues. This article highlights some of the primary reasons behind upper arm pain.
Muscle Strain
Overexertion or overstretching can lead to muscle strain, causing tears in muscle fibers. This is among the most frequent causes of upper arm pain.
A complete tear in the muscle fibers results in intense pain that manifests immediately or shortly after the injury. Resting the affected muscles is vital for recovery. Engaging in strenuous activity without allowing healing can worsen the pain.
Shoulder Injuries
Damage or inflammation from shoulder injuries often cause pain in the upper arm muscles. Continuing to use the shoulder during injury can aggravate symptoms, so rest is highly recommended.
Humerus Fractures
Breaks in the upper arm bone (humerus) may be mistaken for muscle pain but are usually much more painful. Such fractures often occur after falls or during overhead sports like baseball or softball.
Other Contributing Factors
Additional causes of upper arm pain include:
Blood clots in the upper arm veins
Infections in the humerus
Cardiac events such as heart attacks
Tumors in the humerus, whether benign or malignant
If you experience persistent or severe pain, consulting a healthcare professional is essential. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.
