When your arm feels chronically stiff or painful, it may limit what you can do. To find out the source of your chronic arm pain, Jerome Carter, MD, offers comprehensive diagnostic services to get you back to your usual routine. At Advanced Pain Management Specialists, with an office in Baytown, Texas, you also receive an individualized treatment plan to address pain and enhance your functionality. Learn more about treatment options for arm pain by calling the office today, or you can book a consultation online.
What causes arm pain?
Arm pain can affect any part of your arm, including your elbow, wrist, and shoulder. For many people who are dealing with chronic arm pain, the cause is often due to direct injury or overuse. In some cases, arm pain can result from underlying medical conditions or an infection.
Other common causes of arm pain include:
- Sprains
- Arthritis
- Inflammation
- Pinched nerves
- Rotator cuff tears
There are also concerns about heart issues that may cause radiating pain down your arm. If you have arm pain in conjunction with chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical help immediately.
How is arm pain diagnosed?
Dr. Carter performs comprehensive diagnostic testing to determine the cause of your arm pain. They review your medical history and your activities to determine if an illness or injury is causing your pain.
During your exam, you may need to move your arms in certain ways to allow the doctors to evaluate your flexibility and range of motion.
To identify damage from arthritis, pinched nerves, or soft tissue tears, Dr. Carter may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI. If the doctors suspect you have an infection, they may order blood tests.
What treatments are available for arm pain?
Depending on your diagnosis, Dr. Carter may recommend heat or ice therapy to minimize pain and any inflammation. You may also benefit from physical therapy exercise to strengthen your arm muscles and increase arm functionality.
If chronic pain limits your ability to move your arm or stay physically active, Dr. Carter can provide pain-relieving treatments, such as epidural steroid injections, that deliver medications directly to the injured area.
Nerve blocks are also an option if the source of your arm pain is a damaged or pinched nerve in your arm or your cervical spine.
The goal of your treatment plan is to alleviate pain with long-term results. Dr. Carter also focuses on treatments that can prevent the need for surgery or other invasive treatments.
If your life is interrupted by chronic arm pain, schedule an evaluation online or call the office nearest you today.