Shoulder/Upper Arm Pain

[Kim-C]

  I work on a computer (40-55 hours a week) and have recently started having
  pain in my shoulder and upper arm. I don't think it is carpal tunnel
  syndrome because I have no pain below the elbow. Is there anything I can
  do to relieve the pain and should I see a doctor?
  Thank you,
  Kim Carr
=
Yes you should see a doctor.
Although carpal tunnel syndrome usually involves numbness or discomfort of the wrist and hand, it can include pain further up the arm.
However, CTS is not the only possibility. Consider also the possiblity of the a "pinched nerve" in the neck, probably around C5. If you see a neurologist, you can be examined for signs of weakness and sensory abnormalities. Further, a careful history should be taken.
If you do have a cervical neuralgia or cervical radiculopathy (the fancy terms for the pinched nerve in the neck), it won't necessarily show up on MRI or EMG unless damage is severe. In fact, one of the reasons your doctor might order one or both of those tests would be to be sure the damage isn't severe. So if they come up normal, it doesn't mean that isn't what you have.
If your doctor is confident of the diagnosis, he/she may prescribe medications such as ibuprofen and may suggest physical therapy (or at least some exercises).
So you see, there is potentially a lot that can be done, especially now that your symptoms are not disabling. I hope this helps. As you know, this information is provided for your medical education only. Any specific comment regarding your diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis must come from your doctor. CCF MD mdf.