Table of Contents
Is it normal for your left arm to hurt?
Small aches and pains in the left arm are often a normal part of aging. However, sudden or unusual left arm pain could be a sign of a more serious medical problem. It might be a symptom of an injury that needs treating or, in the worst case, the effect of a heart attack.
Does pain in left arm mean stroke?
In some cases, left arm pain and numbness may indicate a heart attack or stroke. These medical emergencies require immediate attention. However, there are other causes of left arm pain and numbness that do not need emergency help.
How do I know if my arm pain is serious?
Seek emergency treatment if you have:
- Arm, shoulder or back pain that comes on suddenly, is unusually severe, or is accompanied by pressure, fullness or squeezing in your chest (this may signal a heart attack)
- An obvious deformity or protruding bone in your arm or wrist, especially if you have bleeding or other injuries.
How do I relieve pain in my left arm?
Self-care
- Rest. Take a break from your normal activities.
- Ice. Place an ice pack or bag of frozen peas on the sore area for 15 to 20 minutes three times a day.
- Compression. Use a compression bandage to reduce swelling.
- Elevation. If possible, elevate your arm to help reduce swelling.
Can stress cause left arm pain?
Anxiety can cause pain in the left arm. If it is due to a panic attack or muscle tension, it is likely to be temporary, but people with anxiety disorders may also experience chronic pain. Anxiety is a treatable condition. A doctor might suggest therapy, medications, or stress management techniques to help.
Why does my arm ache for no reason?
Causes of arm pain If the pain does come from the arm itself, it may be caused by simple muscle or tendon fatigue, overexertion, or repeated and prolonged use of the arms (for example, at work or when exercising). It could also be due to tendinitis, bruising from an impact injury, a sprain or a fracture.
What causes nerve pain in left arm?
A pinched nerve is one that is compressed or inflamed. It can be a result of a herniated disk due to trauma or wear and tear injury. Symptoms of a pinched nerve are similar to those of a herniated disk, and may include numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in your arm.
What are common causes of left arm weakness?
Strain injuries in the left arm can be another causative factor of arm weakness and pain.
What to do when your arm hurts?
What to Do If Your Arm Hurts. Your arm needs rest after it’s stressed. By stopping the actions that produced the soreness, like throwing, the body heals over time. Continuing to throw compounds the problem, and: Increases the risk of more serious damage to the muscles and joints. Reduces power generation.
Pain related to the heart is typically not brought on by moving the arm. If left arm pain persists for a long time, it is less likely to be related to a heart problem. Conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis and arthritis may persist for months or even years, making the likelihood of an association with heart disease highly unlikely.