This article discusses some of the potential causes of left arm pain, including both cardiac and noncardiac reasons.
It could come on suddenly or appear gradually over time.
Sometimes, the bone(s) in your arm may look disjointed or out of place.
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Herniated Disc
Spinal discs act as cushions that separate the individual vertebrae from one another.
Peripheral neuropathy refers to pain, numbness, and tingling in the extremities.
Together, they are known as therotator cuff.
It may get worse when you use it or if you sleep on your left side.
Strains are due to overuse of or injuries to the muscles or tendons, while sprains affect theligaments.
They most often affect the wrists, arms, ankles, feet, legs, and/or fingers.
In addition to the joints, it can lead to pain that runs down one or both arms.
It may cause left arm pain (or right arm pain) as well as neck and shoulder pain.
Angina is easy to confuse with symptoms of indigestion, such as heartburn or bloating.
Unstable angina requires immediate medical attention.
You may experience pain in your left arm if your shoulder is affected by bursitis.
In the meantime, you’re able to take steps to soothe your pain at home.
Contact a healthcare provider if these measures do not help to resolve your symptoms.
How Do You Know If Left Arm Pain Is Not Heart-Related?
Many people with left arm pain understandably worry that theyre having a heart attack.
Treatment Options
Treatment for pain in your left arm pain depends on its underlying cause.
Examples include:
Summary
Left arm pain can have both cardiac and non-cardiac causes.
Possible heart-related causes includeanginaand heart attack.
You should also get emergency medical care for acute left arm pain after an injury.
If the pain in your left arm persists for several weeks, reach out to a healthcare provider.
MedlinePlus.Arm injuries and disorders.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About heart attack symptoms, risk, and recovery.
American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Herniated disc.
OrthoInfo - American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve).
OrthoInfo - American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Rotator cuff tears: Frequently asked questions.
National Health Service.Sprains and strains.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About other conditions related to heart disease.
National Health Service.Elbow and arm pain.
