Sore arms - Photo MEDI
Pain in the arms
Pain in the arms and nearby structures (shoulder, elbow or wrist) can be extremely troublesome. Pain in the arms can be caused by several different factors, but some of the most common are overload, trauma (accident or fall), nerve irritation, muscular failure loads and mechanical dysfunction.
Pain in the arms is a musculoskeletal disorder that affects a larger proportion of the population over a lifetime. Pain in the arms can also be caused by problems with neck or shoulder. Any tendon injuries or the like can in most cases be investigated by a musculoskeletal expert (chiropractor / manual therapist), and further confirmed by a diagnostic ultrasound or MRI where this is necessary.
Also read: What You Should Know About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Also read: 6 Exercises against Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What can I do even for muscle and joint pain?
1. General exercise, specific exercise, stretching and activity are recommended, but stay within the pain limit. Two walks a day of 20-40 minutes make good for the body and aching muscles.
2. Trigger point / massage balls we strongly recommend - they come in different sizes so you can hit well even on all parts of the body. There is no better self help than this! We recommend the following (click the image below) - which is a complete set of 5 trigger point / massage balls in different sizes:
3. Training: Specific training with training tricks of various opponents (such as this complete set of 6 knits of different resistance) can help you train strength and function. Knit training often involves more specific training, which in turn can lead to more effective injury prevention and pain reduction.
4. Pain Relief - Cooling: Biofreeze is a natural product that can relieve pain by cooling the area gently. Cooling is especially recommended when the pain is very severe. When they have calmed down then heat treatment is recommended - it is therefore advisable to have both cooling and heating available.
5. Pain Relief - Heating: Warming up tight muscles can increase blood circulation and reduce pain. We recommend the following reusable hot / cold gasket (click here to read more about it) - which can be used both for cooling (can be frozen) and for heating (can be heated in the microwave).
Recommended products for pain relief for muscle and joint pain
Biofreeze (Cold / cryotherapy)
- Scalenius syndrome
- neck Prolapse
- TOS syndrome
- Inflammation of the arm
- Brachial plexopathy
- Arm fracture
- Hand or wrist fracture
- Lateral epicondylitis (Tennis elbow)
- Medial epicondylitis (Golfer's elbow)
- Tendonitis
- muscle tension
- nerve Irritation
- Karpaltunnelsyndrom
- Active myomas (with associated reference pattern)
- Joint locks in extremities
Arm anatomy - Photo Wikimedia
The arm consists of humerus (the large leg in the upper arm), ulna, radius, carpal bone in the hand (carpus), metacarpus and the fingers (phalanges). In the illustration above you can also see important anatomical landmarks.
Description of arm X-ray: Here we see a standard radiograph of the upper arm (humerus). The image is also marked with anatomical landmarks for the arm.
Description of MRI examination image of arm (humerus): In the picture we see an MRI image of an arm. Specifically, this is an MRI of the humerus (the big bone inside the arm).
Ultrasound examination image of arm / upper arm (humerus)
Description of ultrasound (humerus): This ultrasound image shows the brachial and basal veins of the upper arm.
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment will vary, but some commonly used therapies are:
- Muscle work (massage or trigger point treatment)
- Joint mobilization / joint manipulation
- Shockwave Therapy
- Dry needle
- laser treatment
- Specific training exercises
- Ergonomic advice
- Heat or cold treatment
- Electrotherapy / TENS
- stretching
Forms of treatment that can be used in the treatment of pain in the arms and arm pain
home Practice is often printed and used to address improper use of musculature, with the intention of providing a long-term, long-lasting effect. Ultrasound can be used both diagnostically and as ultrasound therapy, the latter works by providing a deep-warming effect aimed at musculoskeletal problems.Electrotherapy (TENS) or power therapy is also used against joints and muscle problems, it is intended as a direct painkiller, aimed at the painful area.Traction Treatment (also known as tensile treatment or flexion distraction) is a treatment used especially in the lower back and neck to increase the movement of the joints and stretch out nearby muscles.Joint Mobilization or corrective chiropractic joint treatment increases the movement of the joints, which in turn allows the muscles that attach to and near the joints to move more freely.
Massage It is used to increase blood circulation in the area and thus reduce muscular tension, which in turn can cause less pain.heat treatment used to give a deep-warming effect on the area in question, which in turn can give a pain-reducing effect - but it is generally said that heat treatment should not be applied to acute injuries, as isice treatment to prefer. The latter is used for acute injuries and pains to help ease the pain in the area. laser treatment(also known as anti-inflammatory laser) can be used at different frequencies and thus achieve different treatment effects. It is often used to stimulate regeneration and soft tissue healing, plus it can also be used anti-inflammatory. Hydrotherapy (also called hot water treatment or heated pool treatment) is a form of treatment where hard water jets should stimulate improved blood supply, as well as dissolve in tense muscles and stiff joints.
Time classification of pain in the arms
Pain in the arms can be divided into acute, subacute and chronic pain. Acute arm pain means that the person has had pain in the arms for less than three weeks, subacute is the period from three weeks to three months and the pain that has a duration of more than three months is classified as chronic.
As mentioned, pain in the arms can be due to tendon injuries, shoulder problems, neck prolapse, muscular tension, joint dysfunction and / or irritation of nearby nerves. A chiropractor or other expert on musculoskeletal and nerve disorders can diagnose your ailment and give you a thorough explanation of what can be done in the form of treatment and what you can do on your own.
Make sure that you do not walk with pain in your arms for a long time, rather contact a musculoskeletal expert and get diagnosed the cause of the pain. The sooner you get something done about the problem, the easier it will be to get out of the vicious circle. First, a mechanical examination will be performed where the clinician looks at the movement pattern of the arm or any lack thereof. Muscle strength is also studied here, as well as specific tests that give the clinician an indication of what gives the person pain in the wrist. In the case of long-term hand pain, an diagnostic imaging examination may be necessary.
A chiropractor has the right to refer such examinations in the form of X-rays, MRI, CT and ultrasound. Conservative treatment in the form of muscle work, joint mobilization and rehabilitation training - is always worth trying on such ailments, before possibly considering more invasive procedures such as surgery. The treatment you receive will vary, depending on what was found during the clinical examination.
Hand. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Clinically proven effect on hand pain relief in carpal tunnel syndrome (KTS)
An RCT research study (Davis et al 1998) showed that manual treatment had a good symptom-relieving effect. Good improvement in nerve function, sensory sensation in the fingers and general comfort were reported. The methods chiropractors use to treat KTS include chiropractic adjustments of the wrist and elbow joints, muscle work / trigger point work, dry-needling (needle treatment), ultrasound treatment and / or wrist supports. Treatment varies depending on the clinician and your presentation.
What does a chiropractor do?
Muscle, joint and nerve pain: These are things that a chiropractor can help prevent and treat. Chiropractic treatment is mainly about restoring movement and joint function that can be impaired by mechanical pain. This is done by so-called joint correction or manipulation techniques, as well as joint mobilization, stretching techniques, and muscular work (such as trigger point therapy and deep soft tissue work) on the involved muscles. With increased function and less pain, it may be easier for individuals to engage in physical activity, which in turn will have a positive effect on both energy, quality of life and health.
The chiropractor is the primary contact on an equal footing with your GP. You therefore do not need a referral and will receive a diagnosis from the chiropractor. X-rays or MRI examinations will be assessed and referred by a chiropractor if necessary. You can also be on sick leave by your chiropractor for up to 12 weeks, and possibly referred to surgery or another specialist if this is considered necessary.
Exercises, training and ergonomic considerations.
An expert in muscle and skeletal disorders can, based on your diagnosis, inform you about the ergonomic considerations you need to take to prevent further damage, thus ensuring the fastest possible healing time. After the acute part of the pain is over, you will also in most cases be assigned home exercises that also help to reduce the chance of relapse, this is a very important one. In the case of chronic ailments, it is necessary to go through the motor movements you do in everyday life, so as to be able to weed out the cause of your pain occurring time and again.
Prevention:
- Do stretching exercises on the shoulders, hands and fingers before starting work and repeat this throughout the work day.
- Map everyday life. Find the things that cause you pain and make changes to their performance.
- Make the workplace ergonomic. Get a raise and lower desk, a better chair and wrist rest. Make sure your hands are not bent backwards for most of the day, for example if you have a computer keyboard that is not in the correct position in relation to your working position.
- We recommend that you buy the following: Gel-filled wrist rest, gel-filled mouse pad og ergonomic keyboard (customizable)
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Recommended Literature:
- Tennis Elbow: Clinical Management (click here to learn more)
Description: Tennis elbow - Clinical measures. A very good book written for an evidence-based approach to tennis elbow syndrome.
"Bringing together the current knowledge and evidence about the causes and management of tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, the diagnosis and various treatment options for this common sports injury are presented in detail. Generally attributed to overexertion or repetitive motion of the elbow joint, tennis elbow causes pain, tenderness and stiffness in the elbow and wrist even in non-athletic, day-to-day activities, such as lifting and pulling. Beginning with its etiology, subsequent chapters explore both conservative and surgical treatments, from physical therapy, joint injections and acupuncture to arthroscopy, open surgery and denervation. Outcomes, rehabilitation and return to play are also discussed, as are techniques and indications for handling complications and revision surgery. Ideal for orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine practitioners, Tennis Elbow: Clinical Management is a practical reference for any clinician treating athletes or active patients. »
- Pain Free: A Revolutionary Method for Stopping Chronic Pain (click here to learn more)
Description: Painless - a revolutionary method of stopping chronic pain. The world-famous Pete Egoscue, who runs the well-known The Egoscue Method Clinic in San Diego, has written this very good book. He has created exercises that he calls E-Cises and in the book he shows step-by-step descriptions with pictures. He himself claims that his method has a full 95 percent success rate. Click here to read more about his book, as well as see a preview. The book is for those who have tried most of the treatment and measures without much success or improvement.
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Also read:
"I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion. » - Muhammad Ali
Training:
- Chin-up / pull-up exercise bar can be an excellent exercise tool to have at home. It can be attached and detached from the door frame without the use of a drill or tool.
- Cross-trainer / ellipse machine: Excellent fitness training. Good for promoting movement in the body and exercising overall.
- Rubber exercise knit is an excellent tool for you who need to strengthen the shoulder, arm, core and more. Gentle but effective training.
- Kettlebells is a very effective form of training that produces fast and good results.
- Rowing Machines is one of the best forms of training you can use to get good overall strength.
- Spinning ergometer bike: Good to have at home, so you can increase the amount of exercise throughout the year and get better fitness.
References:
- Davis PT, Hulbert JR, Kassak KM, Meyer JJ. Comparative efficacy of conservative medical and chiropractic treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1998;21(5):317-326.
- Punnett, L. et al. A Conceptual Framework for Integrating Workplace Health Promotion and Occupational Ergonomics Programs. Public Health Rep. , 2009; 124 (Suppl 1): 16–25.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I have pain in my arm when I lift. What could be the cause?
Pain in the arm during lifting and lifting can be caused by a variety of diagnoses, including muscle damage in the biceps, triceps or other involved muscles. If you are a little more specific on where it hurts when you lift (Exterior, inside of arm? Up or under arm?) Then we can say a little more specific. It may also be due to referenced pain from the neck or shoulder, e.g. due to joint restrictions and lack of movement.
Has so incredibly pain in both arms, has had pain for several years, can not do anything… what can help?
Hi Elisabeth,
To say what can help you, we need a little more information.
1) Have you taken any imaging diagnostics? (MRI, X-ray or similar) If so - what did they show?
2) How long have you been in pain? You write for many years - but when did it all start?
3) Do you have pain in the shoulder, elbow, hands or fingers?
4) Where is the pain located?
5) Is the pain worst in the morning or afternoon?
6) In what way would you describe the pain?
Regards.
Thomas v / Vondt.net
It showed nothing on MRI.
Have had pain about since dec. 2013.
pain in the whole arm, first Right now both.
It hurts to use them, no matter what I do, so I can just forget about writing.
I was on MRI of the neck and shoulder.
Hei igjen,
So you have pain in the whole arm on both sides? Are there any parts that hurt more than others possibly?
- Is the pain worst in the morning or afternoon?
- In what way would you describe the pain (sharp? Electric? Numbness?)?
Hello. I have been struggling with pain all over my body for several years. Especially arms, neck and back. Took X-ray of the neck in 2006 due to numbness of hands. Was told by the doctor that I had wear and tear on my neck, but was also diagnosed with vascular tunnel syndrome in both hands. Was then 29 years old. Operated both hands in 2007. Was sent for MRI of the neck in 2013 when I went to the naprapath clinic and she asked me to be referred by the doctor. Sometimes I have so much pain in my arms and neck that I cry in the car on the way home from work. It squeaks and stings and hurts a lot. Struggling to stir in sauces, hold / carry heavy things, sit to relax with the neck or generally relax properly. Feels like everything hurts. I really want to start painting the outside of the house, sanding and painting a cupboard and various other projects, but I know that if I do, I will be in pain for many days afterwards. Do not like to go to the doctor to complain.
Hi Kari-Anne,
It's really frustrating when the head wants more than what the body can handle. Would treatment modalities have been tried? Have joint treatment, needle treatment, TENS / current treatment been tried? And do you even feel that you have any good carpal tunnel syndrome exercises? If not we recommend said.
Was the operation for KTS successful, by the way? On both sides?
Have not had any special treatments other than that I have been to naprapath and to a psychomotor physiotherapist. Got some exercises from the latter, but do not feel that this helped anything. The neck, arms and back are just as bad. When it comes to the operations of KTS, I feel that they were successful to a certain extent .. But do not have the full strength in the grip anymore. Operated both hands yes. As mentioned, have not been to the doctor and therefore have not had any other treatments. But have thought about acupuncture treatment. Also thinking that I have fibromyalgia because I also have pain elsewhere, but alternately and occasionally. Can suddenly wake up with pain in an ankle and have it for a few days. Then do not have pain for a while. To wake up like that to have pain in the hip. Struggling terribly with this and gets worse when it gets colder ..
Very interesting, Kari-Anne. Our recommendation would be to go to a public health-authorized therapist (eg chiropractor or manual therapist) who engages in comprehensive treatment of muscles and joints - preferably with needle treatment, muscle work and adapted joint mobilization. We think you could benefit from that.
Regarding fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Is this something that is in the family?
Hi! I have been in a lot of pain in many places suddenly and at the same time, but my arms are the worst. The thumb hurts, the entire top and bottom of the upper arm, the pectoral muscle attachment and up along the outside of the neck. Particularly painful to turn, lift eg jug / kettle, and to grip, squeeze tubes and close push buttons on clothes etc.
Have a child that I have carried a lot (6 kg), and it is even then difficult to relieve completely. What should I do? Could it have something to do with the fact that I also have pain in the jaw muscles (pain to chew), calf and thigh muscles, and ankle joints?
Everything came at once, but can be different things. Has been like that for three days. Is like being very upset, but has only trained as usual (walks, light stretching) Is 30 years old, but feels like 90… Can mention that I have previously had an atypical tennis elbow, but got rid of it.
Hi Ina,
Is this on one side or in both arms? Do you otherwise feel that you have a fever or that you feel tired in general in your body? With so many painful areas, our minds quickly turn to the strong flu - but you're not sick, are you? Had you made any heavy physical exertion before the ailments occurred?
Regards.
Thomas v / Vondt.net
The arms may be because the kid was sick and we carried him more or less for two days in a row. It is quite similar on both sides. Is also like that I am much weaker, if I e.g. must squeeze / grip.
Have not had a fever, but a little sore and lethargic. It's over now. Also thought of something flu-like at first, but do you get such muscle pain from it?
One can definitely get both joint pain and muscle pain in large parts of the body due to the flu. But you feel better now?
The neck is nice again, and is not limp. The arms and muscles are still bad.
Strange. If you do not notice improvement, we suggest that you contact your GP.
Hello. I have been walking for a long time with constant pain in my shoulders and upper arms. When it started in the right seat as well, I joked off to the doctor .. Have now gone on two Pencilin courses, as the doctor insists that there must be inflammation. Everything else I know is too "young, easy and flexible" to fail. Lately I have also started to feel that someone is "standing" on the right side of my chest, it feels very hot, and it almost feels as if someone is constantly beating my heart. Do not know if these things have any connection then. Can control me for what I would call reckless Pencilin eating, therefore wondering if there is a smart head in you who have any suggestions .. Am a woman, 49 years with normal weight. Never be overweight or prone to accidents. Works in grocery store.
Hi Merete,
This does not sound very good. Is there a familial incidence of cardiovascular disease in your family? Do you have high blood pressure? Recommend that you discuss these things with your GP for examination. Regarding the pressure in the chest, this can be angina or also esophageal problems - for example due to acid regurgitation. Are you bothered with the latter? In this case, all the medicines you have been taking recently may have contributed to a worsening in relation to this.
Hi, I've had arm pain for over 3 months, did a lot of strength training and it hurt I think, and feel like it's not getting better, it's mostly on the upper arm and towards the elbow, it doesn't really hurt but it makes I don't get to train or do other activities, when I try and train my arm becomes stiff and hard very quickly and there is some pain. I have used my arm very little in the last few months but it still doesn't go away, I had the same problem last year and it went away in a few weeks without training. I have also smeared myself several times a day with heat salve and turmeric and used a support bandage for over a month. Do you have any tips on what I should do?