wrist,arm and shoulder pain

I am a full time dog groomer and I know that arm and wrist pain are part of the job, but  a few weeks ago I was getting a drink of water and I grabbed the glass of water only about 6 ozs in weight and moved it to the left side of the sink, my elbow kind of felt like it wasn't in the right position when I felt a pop and then excruciating pain, I'm guessing  I hyper extended it or something, it's been about three weeks now and every time I to hold a dogs beard or paw, or for that matter anything that has to be gripped where I have to make a fist takes my breath away!   I can't even  use the water sprayer without pain. I have been taking pain killers and they seem to help, but I need to figure out how to fix it or if there is anything I can do to relieve the pain.  I can usually get to sleep at night but I wake up with pain in both arms, the left arm wrist and shoulder are my main concern.

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

First of all, you should be seen by your family physician to determine the extent of damage that has occurred vs attributing it all to pain. If it is felt that you have difficulty with motion secondary to pain, treatment may include medications such as non-steroidals, sometimes steroids if there is swelling (edema), temperature therapy (hot or cold packs depending on your PCP’s recommendation), stretching and controlled physical therapy, muscle relaxants, and so on, these are best prescribed by an experienced physician, each has its own indications.

If you have true weakness, you would benefit from a neurological evaluation to determine the extent of injury. This may include a test called EMG/NCS.

I would suggest that you follow up with your primary physician.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.