[19F] Experiencing severe upper arm pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Muscle Strain or Sprain: This occurs when a muscle or ligament is overstretched or torn, often due to overuse or improper use of a muscle. Your description of pain and weakness in your arm, especially with certain movements or positions, is consistent with this condition.

  • Treatment typically includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be helpful.

• Tendonitis: This is inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. It's often caused by repetitive, minor impact on the affected area, or from a sudden more serious injury. Given your family history of musculoskeletal disorders and the repetitive motion you described, this could be a possibility.

  • Treatment often involves rest, physical therapy, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Bursitis: This is inflammation of the bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between a bone and other moving parts, such as muscles, tendons, or skin. Bursitis is most often caused by repetitive, minor impact on the area, or from a sudden, more serious injury.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend physical therapy or injections.

What you can do

In the meantime, you can try the following to help alleviate your symptoms:

1. Rest your arm and avoid any activities that make your pain worse.
2. Apply ice to your arm for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. If possible, elevate your arm to help reduce swelling.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• You notice a significant increase in swelling or redness
• You develop a fever
• You experience numbness or tingling in your arm or hand
• Your arm becomes weak to the point where you can't use it

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.