Understanding Arm Pain and Weakness

What is Arm Pain and Weakness?

Arm pain refers to discomfort felt anywhere from the shoulder to the fingertips. It may arise suddenly, such as after an injury, or develop slowly over time. Weakness means a noticeable reduction in the strength or control of your arm, making tasks like lifting, carrying or even holding objects difficult.

These symptoms can be mild and short-lived, or they may persist and interfere with everyday life. Sometimes pain and weakness occur together—especially if nerves, muscles or joints are involved.

Typical Symptoms You Might Notice

Different causes produce different symptoms. You may feel:

• Tingling or “pins and needles”
• Numbness or reduced feeling
• Burning or shooting pains
• Muscle weakness or fatigue
• Difficulty gripping or holding items
• Pain that worsens with movement or certain positions
• A dull ache that lingers, or sharp “zinging” sensations
• Swelling, stiffness or visible changes in your arm

What Causes Arm Pain and Weakness?

There are many possible reasons—broadly grouped into three categories:

1. Injuries and Overuse

• Sprains and strains:Ligament or tendon damage often due to falls, sports or sudden pulls.
• Tendonitis:Inflammation of tendons, commonly seen in the shoulder, elbow or wrist.
• Rotator cuff injuries:Tears or inflammation of the shoulder’s stabilising muscles.
• Fractures:Broken bones cause sharp pain, swelling and limited movement.
• Overuse or Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI):Caused by repeated movements at work or during sport.
• Biceps tendon rupture:A tear in the muscle tendon, often felt as sudden weakness or a bulge in the arm.

2. Nerve Compression and Nerve Injury

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:Compression of a nerve at the wrist, causing hand and forearm symptoms.
• Cubital Tunnel Syndrome:Compression at the elbow, affecting the little finger and grip strength.
• Radial and Pronator Syndromes:Affect different forearm muscles and can make rotation or lifting difficult.
• Brachial Plexus Injuries:Damage to the network of nerves from the neck to the arm.
• Pinched nerves in the neck:These often cause arm pain and weakness, especially with neck movement.

3. Medical and Systemic Conditions

• Stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA):Sudden weakness or numbness, usually on one side.
• Diabetes:Can lead to nerve damage, reducing sensation and control.
• Thyroid disorders:Affect metabolism and may cause weakness.
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis):Cause joint pain, swelling and loss of strength.
• Muscle disorders (e.g., muscular dystrophy or myositis):Lead to progressive loss of muscle power.
• Spinal cord compression:Caused by arthritis or slipped discs, leading to nerve pressure.
• Infections, toxins or medication side effects:These can interfere with nerve or muscle function.

How Is the Cause Diagnosed?

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. A careful physical examination helps identify which structures are involved. They may:

• Test your arm strength, reflexes and range of motion
• Check sensation and coordination
• Look for signs of muscle wasting or abnormal movement

Further tests may include:

• X-rays:To detect fractures or joint changes
• MRI or CT scans:To examine soft tissues, discs, nerves and spinal structures
• Ultrasound:To check tendons and muscles for injury
• Nerve studies:To test how well nerves send signals to muscles
• Blood tests:To rule out inflammation, infections, or thyroid and metabolic issues
• Muscle biopsy or genetic tests:In rare cases, these help diagnose muscle conditions

Treatment Options – What Can Be Done?

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Rest and protection:Avoid movements that worsen symptoms
• Pain relief:Simple painkillers or anti-inflammatories may help
• Physiotherapy:Exercises to restore movement, build strength and reduce pressure on nerves
• Occupational therapy:Adapting activities and using aids to maintain independence
• Bracing or splinting:To support the arm or wrist and allow healing
• Heat and ice:To reduce inflammation or relax tight muscles
• Lifestyle changes:Managing conditions like diabetes or improving posture at work

Surgical Treatments (if needed)

• Nerve decompression or repair:To restore normal function in compressed or damaged nerves
• Tendon or ligament repair:Especially for complete tears or persistent instability
• Fracture fixation:Aligning and stabilising broken bones
• Spinal surgery:When disc herniation or bone spurs compress the spinal cord
• Treatment of painful nerve endings (neuromas):May involve surgical removal or re-routing

When Should You Seek Urgent Medical Help?

Seek immediate care if you notice:

• Sudden weakness, paralysis or numbness in your arm or face
• Difficulty speaking or understanding
• Chest pain, shortness of breath or collapse
• A deformed or swollen arm after injury
• Weakness that worsens or doesn’t improve
  These signs may indicate a stroke, heart attack or severe injury needing prompt attention.

Preventing Arm Pain and Weakness

Simple steps can reduce your risk:

• Stretch before and after exercise
• Warm up properly and use correct technique
• Take breaks from repetitive tasks
• Sit and stand with good posture
• Lift objects carefully, keeping them close to your body
• Use protective gear during sports
• Manage health conditions with your doctor’s help

Key Takeaways

• Arm pain and weakness can have many causes—from minor strains to serious neurological events
• Early diagnosis improves recovery
• Most cases improve with rest, therapy and lifestyle changes
• Severe or sudden symptoms should never be ignored
• A personalised treatment plan offers the best outcomes

Call to Action

If you have pain, book an appointment to be reviewed by Prof Imam or another member of our specialist team at The Arm Clinic. Early specialist care helps prevent long-term issues. Visit www.TheArmDoc.co.uk or book your consultation today. Phone: 020 3384 5588 | Email: Info@TheArmDoc.co.uk

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for individual guidance on your condition and treatment options.

This page was last clinically updated in May 2025