Brachialgia - Arm Pain
Brachialgia, also known as arm pain, is a condition characterized by pain, numbness, weakness or tingling in the arm. It can be caused by a variety of conditions that affect the nerves, bones, joints, muscles, or blood vessels in the arm.
It’s important to consult with your neurosurgeon if you are experiencing symptoms of brachialgia. A neurosurgeon will be able to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.
Causes
Symptoms
Treatment
Causes
Some common causes of brachialgia include:
Cervical radiculopathy: This is a condition in which a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, causing pain, weakness, and numbness in the arm. It is often caused by a herniated disc or bone spurs in the cervical spine.
Thoracic outlet syndrome: This is a condition in which the nerves or blood vessels in the upper chest are compressed, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm.
Tendinitis: This is an inflammation of the tendons in the arm, which can cause pain and weakness.
Fractures: Fractures of the bones in the arm can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected limb.
Arthritis: This is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, which can lead to pain and stiffness in the arm.
Symptoms
Symptoms of brachialgia can vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- pain in the arm, shoulder or hand
- weakness in the arm or hand
- numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
- stiffness in the arm or hand
- difficulty gripping or holding objects
Treatment
Treatment for brachialgia will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. Some common treatments include:
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles in the arm and improve range of motion.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers can be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the brachialgia. For example, if a herniated disc is compressing a nerve in the neck, a neurosurgeon may recommend a cervical discectomy.
Brachialgia can affect people of all ages and can be caused by various reasons such as injuries, overuse, poor posture, degeneration or nerve entrapment.
More Conditions
- All
- Brain Conditions
- Spinal Conditions
- Treatment