lower arm pain

I have been experiencing lower left arm pain for about three months.  I also have chronic thumb pain in both my thumbs with classic carpal tunnel symptoms (numbness and pain, especially at night).  I have decreased grip strength and have pain with lifting things with my left arm.  The pain originates from my elbow.  Is this part of carpal tunnel, or should I have this further evaluated.  I don't want to run to my doctor for normal aging aches and pains.  I am 43 y.o.  Thanks!

[J T Junig, MD PhD]

I am going to suggest that you take this question to the orthopedic or occupational health forums.  I have wondered myself whether carpal tunnel will explain pain proximal to the wrist-- or whether the injury would have to be proximal to the pain.  Whether carpal tunnel or something else, decreased grip strength and pain with use are not normal in a healthy 43-y-o person.  Without changing your behavior or treating the cause, the weakness is likely to progress, and it is often difficult to regain strength that is lost from chronic wasting of the muscles.