Aching Pain Is Often From Overuse
Many things can cause forearm pain.
The most common cause of wrist and forearm pain is arepetitive stress injuryfrom daily activities.
The differences are described below.
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Although they’re commonly associated with sports, any repetitive motion can cause this throw in of forearm pain.
Forearm Pain and Condition-Related Causes
Underlying medical conditions and various syndromes can cause forearm pain.
Below are some condition-related causes of forearm pain.
Forearm Osteomyelitis
The medical term"osteomyelitis"describes a bone or joint infection.
If this bundle of nerves is damaged, the resulting peripheral neuropathy can cause forearm pain.
Compression of these nerves can causethoracic outlet syndrome(TOC), which often causes forearm pain.
Typing is a common cause.
Rheumatoid arthritis, menopause, and thyroid imbalance can also cause CTS.
Is My Arm Pain a Heart Attack Symptom?
There may be a link between forearm pain and the heart.
The RICE method is the gold standard for treating acutestrains and sprains.
Applying Cold
Cold temperatures reduce swelling by causing blood vessels to constrict.
Pressing into specific sore spots with your thumb (myofascial release) can help break up painful knots.
Stretches
Avoid exacerbating a forearm injury by overstretching or stretching too soon.
Gently pull towards your shoulder.
Feel the muscles and tendons underneath the forearm stretch, then release.
Hold each stretch for five to 10 seconds and repeat on the other side.
Forearm Pain Exercises
Strengthening exercises can help forearm pain.
Injections
Cortisone injectionscan help reduce forearm pain triggered by things liketendonitis(inflammation of the tendons).
However, overusingcortisone shotscan have adverse effects such as damaging cartilage within your joints.
But surgery always comes with risk.
If possible, get a second opinion before deciding to have a surgical procedure to treat forearm pain.
How Does Forearm Pain Feel?
Forearm pain can feel achy or sharp.
Diagnosing Forearm Pain
Depending on the underlying cause of forearm pain, the diagnostic process can vary.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Forearm pain can develop suddenly or gradually worsen over time.
Sharp and severe arm pain that happens suddenly and for no apparent reason could be a heart attack symptom.
If this happens, seek medical attention immediately by going to the emergency room or calling 911.
When forearm pain is sudden and sharp, it may indicate an emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Repetitive movements usually cause dull, aching forearm pain that can often be treated at home.
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