Upper Arm Pain mid arm between the elbow and shoulder - Undiagnosed Symptoms

martina1024

Jun 03, 2012

I am a 42yr old female with same issues. Pain in mid right arm between elbow and shoulder started about a yr ago. As of two wks ago, pain worsened. Last night, the pain woke me up, pain so severe I cried.
Its deep pain like in the nerves so my husband massaging it gave no relief at all. Im surprised at so many people with identical issues.

My last doc visit I mentioned this problem and of course he said its muscle spasms without even doing xray. 800 mg Ibuprofen before bed and middle of night does not help, Going back to doc this wk. Hope to get an MRI .Think I might try nopalea or some herbs if scan finds nothing cause this pain is unbearable and Im losing sleep.

loulou513

Jun 06, 2012

To: Daleo44

I lifted my husbands mobility scooter (end of March 2012) & felt something go pop in my left arm. the symptoms you describe are the same as I am suffering! I thought I had a strong threshold to pain -but this just grinds you down. Having physio once a week & have had accupunture - does'nt get any better. Cannot put my arm behind my back or above my head without excrutiating pain.Cant' get comfortable in bed as its worse when I am relaxed - so sleepless nights. I'll get an appointment with Dr and ask for cortisone injection - watch this space!!

lf8

Jun 06, 2012

for years ive had a pain in my upper right arm, it would come and go. But for the last three days it has been horrible. cant sleep at night, cant get dressed. My husband just thinks i pulled a muscle. but after reading all of these i doubt its the muscle thats the problem. In 2000 I fractured several bones in my right hand and had tendon damage. Im wondering if this could be related to that some how.

jeffrey528

Jun 09, 2012

To: lf8

Five days ago I suddenly developed all of the symptoms described in this blog in my left arm. Could not dress myself or get to sleep. Excruciating and debilitating. Reading your blogs made me completely depressed. Well, it's 95 per cent disappeared. I took two homeopathic remedies alternating doses: Nux Vomica and Graphites (strength 6). Hope this is of value to you. By the way, don't touch the medicine with your fingers, don't drink coffee, coke or take mint in any form while you are taking the medicine. Best wishes, Jeffrey.

Remo444

Jun 25, 2012

To: if8

I have had a little pain in my arm for about 2 years. I had a breast ultrasound and the tech made me keep my arm above above my head for 1/2 hour about a month ago. Now I have the pain you are all talking about. Cannot lift it at all . Severe pain. I ahve been going to therapy. Might have helped a bit but I think it is just slowly getting better or changing. Now I will all of a sudden get a deep pain without even moving it. I did have low vitamin D (6) so I wonder if that is why had arm pain for 2 years. I think keeping it above my head for 1/2 hour while laying down traumatized it and that is when it started getting so bad. I will try a chiropractor next.

Battlepain2012

Jun 26, 2012

To: All in Pain

In April I had the worst pains ever. I slept sitting up for weeks. I sat still in a chair most of the day fearing movements that would trigger stabbing pains from a sore spot in my shoulderblade which seemed to radiate from my spine and continued down my arm ending in tingling pinpricked fingers. I was prescribed Gabapentin, Cyclobenzaprine and another med. These meds kept me tired and not at all pain free. I read some comments on a forum (maybe this one) that pointed me in the direction of D3. I found out that my vitamin D level was 21. Lower than 20 is severely deficient. I didn't really believe that this could be the cause for so much pain but I was desperate. I was prescribed 50,000 iu of D2 once a week for eight weeks but further research revealed that I should get true D3 from a health foods store instead of the manufactured D2 that my doctor prescribed. I got the D3 from the health food store and started taking about 10,000 iu daily. I felt my body respond within the first week. I felt at least a 15% reduction in pain my first week and at least 10-20% reduction each week following. I can finally sleep all night in my bed with minimal pain. I can sit up in bed in the morning like a normal person. When my pain was at its height, I had to carefully crawl out of bed using my knees instead of springing up and stepping out of bed like most people. If you do the research you will see that low D3 leads to all types of pain and eventually leads to cancer, autoimmune diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, etc. As I raised my D levels I also noticed my hot flashes decreased, my diabetes was better controlled and I could turn my neck to look back in my car again without the stiffness and pain. I feel so blessed that I had to share this in hope that this info will help someone else.

QueenTutDena

Jun 27, 2012

I have had this pain in my right arm for about 3 months. It's between my shoulder and elbow but mostly in the middle of my arm on the outside. It moves around. Sometimes in the front part of my shoulder in the joint. Right now it is in the middle of my arm. It's like I have pulled something. I am on Neurontin and Cymbalta for other things, but it doesn't help this problem. I have tried those heat patches. It seems like when cold air hits it it, feels like a toothache feels. I got some Aspercream today and thought I would try that. I'll let you know. I ca't sleep on my side so I sleep on my back. I notice when I use my computer in bed it really flares up! The pain is excruciating. It really aggravates the situation using my laptop computer. I just try to let my arm rest during the day as much as possible. It's hurts to get dressed and fixing my hair. It's awful to have to live like this!

someonewhosbeenthere

Jun 27, 2012

To: Battlepain2012

To everyone mentioning very high doses of Vitamin D as a remedy, please go read up about the side effects of taking too much over extended periods or the interactions with prescribed medications. There is such a thing as taking too much of a good thing..... You may end up with liver damage when taking such high doses; the damage will show up in a few years.

We have this false sense of security when taking vitamins and "natural" products thinking the body will simply flush out the excesses it doesn't need, but that's not always the case. It's what the industry around natural products would like you to think.... Just be informed and stay within the maximum recommended doses. Hope it helps someone to know this....

Battlepain2012

Jun 28, 2012

To: someonewhosbeenthere

I appreciate the warning. Thankfully, there is a huge amount of research to support the benefits of vitamin d supplementation for people who have this deficiency. Thankfully doctors can test for this deficiency quite easily. Anyone thinking of raising their levels through supplementation should first find out if they are deficient. If their doctor is up to date on the latest research, he or she will advise them accordingly. There is a website that has been set up by a nonprofit called the vitamin d council. I advise everyone to Google "Vitamin d council" and find out the facts. Once a doctor finds out that you are vitamin d deficient, he or she should start your treatment through supplementation and monitor your progress by testing your level every monthly or quarterly. Again, thanks for your advice, but I hope people aren't discouraged by your experience because research proves that vitamin d can help the body heal itself in many ways. I'm curious! What vitamin/supplement messed with your liver? You failed to mention that.

colby22

Jun 29, 2012

To: Battlepain2012

I started up again 6 weeks ago with not only the upper arm pain I have had off and on over 30 yrs and have never taken a drug for pain since my 30's due to allergic reaction. I never was in this much pain 24 hrs a day that I literally was waking with tears and crying and wimpering day and night.

I finally went to see this pain management dr I saw last yr about this  same time and he knew  how i felt about getting addicted to pain meds and not finding since my 30's...well of course there has been progress but not ingredients I could tolerate...and  trust me I would rather be in pain than itch all over my body. He gave me lidocaine patches which helped last yr but was not cutting it at all this time so he gave me another patch butran which after reading ingredients conatined iodine rather thanbe a pain in his  butt  suffered another 3 weeks no sleep not an  hr of relief then decided to look at my calendar because I keep a daily journal food, activities etc due to celiac and allergies...well I look at the 2 weeks before  it
it flared again and darn if it was not when I cut down my D3.

I had been  taking 2500IU of D3  twice a day and my multi had 1000IU for months and sometimes I feel I want  to give my liver a rest from all the vits and supps i take since my diet sort of ***** between allergies and  celiac.

I had read this inaccurate study abut D3 so I cut back to 1 2500IU two weeks before this came on so suddenly and vengeful...I go back and look at last years visit to dr, same thing I had reduced the D3.

I saw him on Wed June 20, he had me come back on Fri for an  injection of depo medrol, told me by 24  hrs I'd be feeling fine...no so I was the same...I couldn't stand the pain didn't want to talk to anyone, couldn't even hold a fork if I wanted to eat. I sat down started looking back into the calander did a search on my calander and there it was 4 yrs in a row each time I reduced D3 I flared again...5 days ago I started back on  2 2500IU and the 1000 in my multi and today I am pain free...now did the shot take 9 days to kick in, I doubt it I am sure the 6000IU of D3 is the answer for me. At one point I could remember saying oh my knee is aching, think I will take my D3...it always worked like a pain pill for me.

Day after day when the email rolls in from this forum when someone  posts I think maybe they all have autoimmune disorders like me, lupus, celiac, hashimoto thyroid etc and they haven't been diagnosed but not many had mentioned other problems...so here I sit and I should probably sroll back and find out the first time I came here begging for info but I already think I found my answer. I am scheduled for arms and hands to be xrayed to see if there is a fracture, we already had MRI and knew I had a spur on top of spine, some spinal deterioration, herniated disks but I have no back pain.

I am staying on the increased D3 and will post after my xrays. Can't believe I am wake w/o pain actually typing this long and praying this is my answer again...I do take K2 and Cal/mag Coq10 (400gr), Omega 3 (4gram) as well as other vits & supps but this was the only one I decreased before the pain began again and not just one time! At this time I am taking 6000IU total.

Battlepain2012

Jul 01, 2012

I'm thoroughly convinced from my own experience with chronic pain that vitamin d supplementation saved me. Nothing else relieved my pain. I plan to have my doctor monitor my vitamin d levels quarterly just as they do with my blood sugar and cholesterol. I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2008 and have been diabetic for about 10 years. I am so happy to have found a simple solution to my pain. I don't know how vitamin d helped my body to start repairing itself, but it did. Since starting my vitamin d therapy my blood sugar is returning to normal and my pain has been greatly reduced with no side effects. I do believe its important to have your levels monitored. Is your doctor doing this for you?

dcypherz

Jul 07, 2012

To: Arm Pain Buddies

In 2010 started on Crestor. In 2011, got severe mid upper arm pain in right arm. Then months later, the left. Cortisone shots helped. Dr thought neck pinching nerve, NOT. Had MRI, X ray, nothing. Well, I asked if I could stop Crestor. All pains left me. EXCEPT left arm. Same type as right arm had. Left arm is severe. It is kind of frozen. I cannot reach around behind me, or use my left arm in certain ways. It is difficult to sleep and I am now set up for MRI on left arm and a CT later this month. I have percocet, but it doesn't do much for the arm pain. I had a bad reaction to my last cortisone shot, so no more of those. Dr said it seemed like it could be a tear in my lumbral ??? Looking that up, didn't seem to be in the correct area. I cannot really pinpoint it. Hopefully, no surgery, but did CRESTOR hurt me? I am still surfing the web getting ideas.... PS I am 62 white female.

dcypherz

Jul 07, 2012

To: Barry345

I read the book on statins...they are bad!! When I quit, mine number became 335 from 150 on Crestor. Cortizone helped, then I got allergic to it. (My head blistered.) I have damage in the nerves of my left arm. My other aches went away when I quit Crestor four months ago.

NancyNice

Jul 21, 2012

I have had this pain now for about a week. It moves from shoulder to arm and is in both places sometimes. Sleeping is impossible without pain meds, which I hate, but I can't work if I can't sleep. There seems to be a pinpoint sore spot on my shoulder blade if I touch it. I don't remember doing anything to it. For about a week before this started I had some pain in my neck, like strain or sleeping wrong. Now that is gone but this is sometimes unbearable. I am going to try the D3, the prescription ibuprofin cant be good for me so....I'm only supposed to take 1, 3 tiimes a day but 1 doesn't even touch this pain.

dcypherz

Jul 22, 2012

To: Jansyers38

Xrays don't ususally show anything. Waste of time and money if you don't have insurance. I had an MRI, and some therapy, but it wasn't my neck. It looked good. The pain is staying right in the middle of my left upper arm. I cannot reach back, too high, or many directions without hurting it. My doc says maybe torn lambral? Don't know what that is, but researched it. I don't want to have surgery, but now I have basically no use of that arm. I am having an MRI when I get home (traveling in RV). When I was taking Crestor, both arms hurt bad, cortizone helped, but it would wear off. I can't take anti inflammatories..bad stomach with those. After I quit taking it, had cortizone, then waited. Right arm pain gone. Left arm, stayed painful. Wierd, huh? Statins are known to damage muscles. Maybe there is no hope for my left arm!! I hate it!!

dcypherz

Jul 22, 2012

To: Daleo44

When the cortizone wore off, does it hurt now? Mine feels so good with a shot, but when it wore off, bad.. My doc thought maybe torn lambral?? Your explanation seems interesting. I have had this for a long time. But I had it in my right arm too, until I quit taking Crestor. The right arm is good now. Maybe the drug caused damage to my left arm? I have an MRI scheduled soon, hope it shows something fixable!

NancyNice

Jul 22, 2012

This may be premature, but I bought the vitamin D3 today. I have been double dosing on pain meds for 4 days. Not good, but I had to work. Had to sleep propped up most of the night last night. Pain was terrible. I took two prescription ibuprofin @ 7am. At 9 am I took 2000i.u. Then again at about 3pm now again at 9pm. The pain is much less now and I don't think I am taking any pain meds tonight. We will see, I'll keep you all posted. If I still feel better in a few days I will attribute it to the vitamin D3. Fingers crossed, hope this will help others. I know how bad this gets. Good luck!

colby22

Jul 22, 2012

To: colby22

update from films;

I did not have one bit of relief from medrol shot, it really seemed to be the worse 3 weeks I ever had. I did however get my xray results and its exactly what I have been thinking to myself but wanted to see it in writing. Results showed inflamed Rheumitoid Arthritis, just as I thought after most of my research and history of auto immune diseases.

I knew the shot would do nothing if it was RA as it moves quite rapidly from spot to spot but was staying in shoulders arms and hands...so a shot in the spine was not going to help this for me.

My dr who agreed and was the one who did the shot suggested I up the D3 another 2500IU's which makes it 9600 now I am taking since Tues...I am getting much more sleep, sleeping through the night and pain is not tolerable. Also increased my calcium/mag so I am feeling somewhat better until another flare. Dr suggested I try the glucosomine again, I had tired it last yr but stopped since I got stomach aches from it, so going to try it again with out the chondrotin.

Noot only is D3 helping with pain but also with getting 8 hrs or more of sleep for me and that seems to be the only way I heal is with sleep.

NancyNice

Jul 23, 2012

Well no pain meds last night or today, just the D3. I can feel that my shoulder and arm are slightly tender, but the shooting, moving pain is all but gone. Certain ways I move I get a twinge but not that extreme pain. It has to be the D3 unless it's a miracle. There is no way if it was an injury it would heal in a day. I am so elated but cautious, hope it lasts. I say try it, what could it hurt? The dosage I'm using is kind of low compared to some others here. Try less and build up. :)

Gidgit109

Aug 08, 2012

I am having the same problem, mainly right arm and shoulder, but left side some too. My problem gets worse when I stand or sit up from a laying position. It feels like when the blood starts to go to this area the pain is almost unbearable. Please help if possible.

kat507

Aug 10, 2012

To: martina1024

I hope you are feeling better. I am having a similar problem and having trouble sleeping at night due to pain.

Apryl_Baby

Aug 11, 2012

To: Battlepain2012

I dont think anything was ment badly about her comment! They were simply warning people to not just take massive doses without being informed, your comment about what liver damage was snotty and not called for....Being informed is always the best policy!!!!!
Apryl

Apryl_Baby

Aug 11, 2012

To: Battlepain2012

I dont think anything was ment badly about her comment! They were simply warning people to not just take massive doses without being informed, your comment about what liver damage was snotty and not called for....Being informed is always the best policy!!!!!
Apryl

fab4lover

Sep 20, 2012

X-rays & 4 doctors later, finally discovered what pain in upper arms (both) is coming from. Every a.m. I wake in pain. One dr. finally pointed out what you see on this site, it is bursitus. I am now going to Physical Therapy, hope it helps....
http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/arthritis-bursitis

dorthyarmstrong

Oct 07, 2012

To: wrshpr1960

have your doctor give you an mri to check for a bone lesion

Kirk52

Oct 15, 2012

Just out of curiosity, my pain is the most severe when I stretch. I also noticed that the pain was a lot worse when I was using my mouse at work which was on the top of my desk. I switched to a below the desk mouse and most of the pain has subsided but not completely gone away. MRI and x rays proved nothing.

silverfox67

Oct 16, 2012

To: Whoever started this

Kava is supposed to be good for strains, sprains, arm pain etc. For me Essiac is the supplement of choice. I have no discs left in my spine (degenerative disc disease). I have lost 3 inches so am very short now. LOL Anyway, when I went to my Orthopedist, she was surprised that I am walking and have very little pain. When I told her I was taking Essiac she made a note of it. I haven't been back to see her in 5 years and feel pretty good except for other health problems.

silalley

Oct 17, 2012

Had spinal manipulations in the upper spine area and immediatly went into massive pain all over the upper back and arms. The arms have had the most chronic pain from the top of the shoulder down to the elbow. I cannot rest it on anything for long periods (as when working on the computer), cannot lift anything more that 4-5kgs, cannot sleep on the arm . This occurred in December 2011 and there is no explanation for the upper arm pain as this would only happen if the neck area has been manipulated. I had gone to the chiropracter for the first time to have my lower back pain seen to - I had no upper spinal pain at all prior to the manipulation. I have been taking Vit D3 for about a week and over the counter pain/anti inflamatory tablets. Where to I go to from here? The Chiro says he has no explnation for this pain.....

sweetiepie481

Oct 28, 2012

To: EVERYONE

I hope my experiences can HELP SOME OF YOU.  I suffer from pinched nerves from time to time, with pain either in my arms or under my shoulder blades.  I am able to self-diagnose from past experiences, and then figure out what has changed in my environment and thus, in my behavior, resulting in the pinched nerve.  The pain usually starts within a few days of working in a new location (my job requires traveling).
The CULPRIT—ironically--is usually an ERGONOMIC CHAIR.  I find that sitting on an old-fashioned metal folding chair (like in an auditorium or outdoor event) is best for posture and keeping feet flat on the floor while working. If you must sit in an ergonomic chair, adjust the seat so that it slopes down in the front (ergonomic chairs position your legs on a higher plane than your buttocks).  Position the seat low enough so that your feet are flat (repositioning the chair may require adjusting the height of your work surface).
At home, try SLEEPING WITHOUT A PILLOW (it gets easier, and you should feel better after just one night).  Along the same lines, make sure that you DO NOT RECLINE while reading (or computing) with your head thrust forward on a pillow or arm of a sofa; this causes “READER’S NECK”.  I had burning pain in my upper arm after a week at a location where I reclined on a stiff loveseat.  I eliminated this behavior, and most of the pain dissipated within 24 hours.  One more suggestion for immediate relief:  if possible, try sleeping on your back with your arm(s) stretched above your head.
BTW, I’m a 47-yr-old woman. I take MAGNESIUM (ordinary drug store tabs) as a sleep aid at bedtime; most multivitamin/mineral supplements lack adequate amounts of magnesium, and it is hard to get enough in your diet unless you eat a lot of nuts and seeds.  I avoid aspartame, just because I prefer not to consume unnatural products that do not come from plants or animals.  I don’t eat much meat.  I avoid any foods with yeast, because I think I have an intolerance to it.  I haven’t tried Vit D supplements, but I consume 2-3 glasses of milk per day.

marisa700

Dec 06, 2012

I have had these syptoms (symptoms) twice now in the last year. I believe it is caused by a combination of posture while using the computer, sleeping on my stomach with all my weight under my body and also I notice that I tense up my arm muscles while on the computer.

I treat it with rest, ice, heat, compression and ibuprofen and it only lasts around 3-5 days when I change my sleeping position, posture and focus on relaxing my tense muscles, but while I am dealing with it...IT HURTS!!!

NEVER had pain like that.

Marylea05

Dec 21, 2012

To: Everyone

I cannot believe I found this forum. I too have been suffering now for over three months with pain to my left arm extending towards the elbow. I've described it to my doctors as sharp stabbing pain that literally feels like my bone is breaking. It does cause discomfort at night, but not pain on the high end of the scale. Well, unless I move wrong. Mine seems to be agitated more with certain types of positioning, like putting on a jacket or sweater, reaching across my chest to scratch my right arm etc.
At first the doctors thought it was related to a car accident I was in, then they said it has to do with the herniated cervical disc I have. I don't think it has to do with the disc as it hurts more when I move my arm not my neck. I was in PT for 8 weeks and instead of it getting better, it got worse. Yesterday I finally got an MRI done. Got a call this morning and they said it was normal...WHAT? I'm so depressed about it. I just want some relief, some answers. Muscle relaxers and pain pills don't make much of a difference. Should I have them do an MRI of the bone? Nice to know I'm not alone. Hope everyone finds some answers and relief.

cassie101350

Dec 24, 2012

To: Marylea05

You will have to tell me what it turns out to be, i seem to have the same problem. What makes it worse for me, is some times it seems fine then when i go to lift even dinner out off the oven, it hits again and i have to grab my arm. The sudden pain makes my arm freeze in its tracks and i cant move it till it passes a bit, it turns into a dull pain that then lasts any where fron 1/2 an hour to a couple off hours. It doesnt help especially since i have a young child with specialneeds, i try my best to avoid as much as possible with the arm.

happywanderer6189

Jan 05, 2013

To: all, dcypherz

Hi, a comment for dcypherz, be very careful with anti cholesterol medications, my brother had a stroke, he was prescribed Lipitor, started getting weak and pain everywhere, was put into hospital, muscles being eaten away, suffered for a whole year as a quadriplegic on oxygen, also suffered severe pain, nothing could be done for him, doctors thought that maybe it was an allergic reaction to Lipitor, fortunately for him, he had another severe stroke and passed away a year after falling ill.

white5tkiduknow

Jan 09, 2013

I know this post is about six years old but I'm desperate for any help I can find.

I'm 21 years old, female. I weigh about 115-125, and have always been in that weight range. Throughout my life I never participated much in athletics, though I have no difficulty running, lifting, or keeping up with any physical task and I'm never short of breath during such tasks.

Since the age of around eight or so, I started experiencing exhausting pain in both of my knees. It was like an inflamed, throbbing pain that would come and go it seemed as the weather or seasons would, like most believe to be the behavior of arthritis. I always avoided checking up on it because it was not a continuous issue and I could perform any daily routine with only slight difficulty, in other words I wasn't trying to be a cry baby, so I toughed it out.

As my adolescence approached, the pain grew more fierce and frequent. At age 18 I began losing a substantial amount of weight for my normal, and I had been seeing a rheumatologist and an osteopathologist. Neither physicians could diagnose my condition, nor permanently treat it. I was prescribed oxycodine for the pain, and I had also undergone a biopsy with clear results. Eventually the pain ceased as it had every other year of my life, and my weight slowly rose to its normal once again. The only difference from the past is that I had never lost weight before. Three, almost four, years later, I still experience the same pain.

The pain in my knees is just as everyone in this forum has described it to be in their arms, except there is one troubling factor that has brought me to my despair, the same excruciating, arthritic pain is present in both the joints of my knees, AND my upper arms. I don't understand how that can be possible and if the pain is somehow related, what could it be? If it is joint related, why is it in my arm muscle, and if it's a problem of musculature, then why are my knees affected? I've searched many times and I can find the two problems separate from one another but never related.

If anyone in this forum has or has ever heard of this experience, please contact me if you have any info regarding it, my email is ***@****. I'm very curious even if it is just a mild form of arthritis, or tendinitis, or if it is in fact untreatable. At this point I am in total solitude and in need of any relief possible.

Good luck to everyone in your affliction and hopes for all a better, less painful tomorrow.

AnnnieJ

Jan 10, 2013

To: Everyone

WOW... I am just amazed as everyone else as to how many of you have the same problem that I have been having for a few weeks. I like to sleep on my right side with my arm up under the pillow so its like my head is on my arm but the pillow is on top of my arm. For a couple of nights my arm would hurt so I would have to flip over to my left side...then one night I somehow ignored the pain and didn't turn over. I guess I was very tired. When I woke up.. I had very very bad pain that didn't go away. At the time I was saying that my shoulder is killing me and come to find out... it wasn't my shoulder,, it was my arm. In a very weird spot.. like where you would get a shot. This pain lasted for over a week and I really couldn't move it much. I couldn't lift it and doing things was very difficult like.. pulling up my pants was out of the question.. I had to use my left hand/arm mostly and things like putting on/taking off a coat or reaching back was very painful. After a week and a half the pain got a little better but if I moved it the wrong way suddenly... it was like the bone was snapping and the pain would come back. I'd be in tears!! I had to always stop and think before I would use my arm and just move it slowly whenever I had to do anything!!!!! I can NOT sleep on my right side anymore!!! I do not get much sleep because I find it hard to get comfortable. I have to prop myself up with pillows behind me and I also can not sleep with my arm under the pillow (left arm) because now after having to lay on my left side.. I am starting to feel like my left arm is going to get the same thing!! How awful is that!!!! So I have to find a position that is ok and just lay there. I don't get more then 2-3 hours of sleep a night.. if that!!! Laying on my back is out of the question most of the time. I found that an ice pack helped with the pain. In the beginning all I used was a bag of frozen corn. It surprisingly helped and so every time I had terrible pain... I would run and get the frozen corn. After a few minutes it felt much better!! After reading a lot of posts I still don't have an answer as to what this is. Do I start taking Vitamin D and Magn. I am not sure if this pain will last forever! I mean,, I am not in any pain now.. but I do feel like if I make one wrong move the pain will be right there again!!! I can not use my arm the same way that I always did. I can't lift it the same way that I used too. It is just terrible!! Sorry for rambling on and on... just feels hopeless!! :( Wondering if anyone has found out anything new since...

Oliduskah

Jan 13, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

I am reading this forum in the middle of the night after once again waking up with the arm pain. Out of all the responses yours is the most like I am experiencing Annie. What is discouraging is there does not seem to be a definite answer to this. At least it is good to know we are not crazy and not alone. My family keeps telling me to get x-rays, etc. but if it's not going to show anything I don't want to add another bill to an already growing stack. Well, thanks for the company everybody. It's been a long night.

Iris01

Jan 18, 2013

To: martina1024

Have you found out the problem. I have pain between my elbow and shoulder and had all kinds of test but no one knows. Only at night but if I get up and move the arm for a short time it will go away but of course come back a couple hours later.

AnnnieJ

Jan 19, 2013

To: Oliduskah

Hi Oliduskah, I sure do feel your pain about waking up in he middle of the night with the pain. Since my post my arm has gotten better and I am able to sleep much much better. I don't have the pain any longer but I am afraid of sleeping on it still. I do take a chance and lay on my right side but not for very long if I feel any discomfort. I'm afraid of it going back to the same pain. Also I still can't use my arm the way I used too. I can lift if higher then a month ago but it still isn't 100% and that stinks!!! But I really won't complain because at least THAT pain is gone!!! I also will not waste any money going to the doctors...after reading all the posts I'm glad I didn't!! You didn't say when your pain started. Try and have a good weekend considering all the sleep that you are missing and all the pain you are in.

AnnnieJ

Jan 19, 2013

To: cassie101350

Just wondering if your arm is better. Mine was the same at around the same time as yours. My arm would also have no pain and if I made the wrong move that pain would shoot in to my arm and I would also freeze and just grab a hold of it and just stand there holding it till if felt better!! Mine has gotten better thank God but not 100%. The pain is gone though!!

BellaTag

Jan 21, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

Wow, I am amazed at everyone with these problems. These comments for sure talked me out of visiting a Dr. I am 63, was fine and one day lifted salt bags into the softner and a few days later I did some exercises just for maybe 10 minutes then my problem started! It hurts so bad to reach for the seat belt, to reach around to my back or to the back seat even. The pain is between my shoulder and elbow top front middle arm. Sleeping is not good either. I do as you with pillows. Rolling over hurts and getting up in the morning but after that all is fine until I reach backwards. Tonight I am trying an arthiritis pain pill just for the grins but don't want to get started on stuff to mess up liver and kidneys. Just being patient and hoping it cures itself :(

AnnnieJ

Jan 22, 2013

To: BellaTag

Sorry to hear that you have the same problem!! I also have trouble reaching back and can not even get to my back if I have an itch or something!! Everyone always tells me to go see someone and get help! I tell them about this site and ALL the people with the same pain and that only time will help. How did the arthritis pain pill work for you? Im ok now with no pain but still have trouble reaching back and lifting. What I do now is if I have to reach back or lift.. I do it slowly OR not at all!!! That is the only way for me!! :(
Try the ice pack if suddenly in pain,, it worked for me!

BellaTag

Jan 22, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

The pill was of no help. Will just bite my lip and wait for it to dissappear :) I am glad your pain has stopped. I am just glad I can use my arms so not complaining, it could be worse.. Thanks for the follow up.

Kniemi

Jan 22, 2013

To: All with sore arm

Has anyone been told it could be what they call a frozen shoulder. My right arm was sore when I moved it and a coworker asked me about it when she saw me trying to put my coat on. She said it happens to her twice. She gave me a pully that I hang in basement and it worked . I am trying it again because my left arm is acting up

Oliduskah

Jan 29, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

Hi Annie! Well, it is 5:00 a.m. and I have been up since 3:30 so you can probably tell things are pretty much the same. I am so glad your pain has lessened for you! Although I don't think any of us on this forum have found a definite solution at least it feels good knowing we are not alone and we are not crazy huh? Best wishes to you :)

AnnnieJ

Jan 30, 2013

To: Oliduskah

Hello and thank you for the best wishes! Just hang in there and know that it will go away at some point. Did you try the frozen ice pack? That sure worked when I was in pain! My arm isn't 100% yet. I still have trouble reaching back and taking a shirt off is so annoying. I have to move very slowly!! Ugghhhhh will it ever go back to 100%??? I can sleep though,, which is a good thing!!! I can't sleep like I used to though :( but I can sleep now! I'm just afraid of doing something to bring back that horrible pain!!! Sorry you had so much pain again last night that it kept you awake!!! Try the ice pack!! Does it hurt non stop OR just at night OR because you hurt it by using it the wrong way?

Twinboxers

Feb 01, 2013

To: Whoever

At 63 I have taken statins for 6 years and for the last 6/7months have started to get muscular pains in first my right arm shoulder to elbow with extreme pain and muscle loss and now am suffering the same symptoms in my left arm not. As yet severe
I have started a course of physio where I'm told I'm suffering muscle shrinking and need to stretch the muscles I have started with electrical stimulation and as an exercise at home trying to clasp my hands behind my back as this also causes the muscles to stretch so far I've got my arms behind me so we progress we won't mention the pain after all I'm a big boy and vey brave

JackieCalifornia

Feb 14, 2013

I read the entire chain of 400+ messages in this thread, and learned a lot!

I've concluded that the cause of my symptoms (described well in the many messages) is likely:

                                  calcified tendonitis

If you search for those words in this thread, you will find mention in several places, tho sometimes tendonitis is spelled tendinitis or otherwise.  So just search for 'calcified' and you'll find the references.

I'm pretty sure this is what is ailing me, because I just recently started taking a lot of calcium (it's a long story) but did not also increase my intake of Vitamin D-3.  Without the D-3, the calcium builds up first in the upper arm muscles, just as so many have described in the 400+ posts above.

Apparently the increased calcium intake has to be balanced by increased Vitamin D-3, or calcium build up begins in the muscles, starting with the upper arm, along the back side of the arm.

This may not apply to everyone, but it's worth a shot.  Search for 'calcified' in this thread and see what you think.  Best wishes to everyone!

AnnnieJ

Feb 15, 2013

To: JackieCalifornia

Hi Jackie.. that sure would make a lot of sense but I do not take any vitamins at all!!!! Not even Calcium. I started taking Vit D and the Magnesium after reading other posts and that was way after the pain stopped many weeks after the pain got better. So.. not sure if that is the answer to our problem. :(
After 3 months my pain is gone but I am not able to use my right arm normally. I was wiping down my car yesterday and man did I hurt my right arm in the exact spot but luckily the pain just went away.. it was like a bone snap!!! I got so scared that the pain would return.. I have to just realize that I can not use my right arm as I used too!! Thank goodness there is no more pain..but it is very annoying at times when I NEED to use my right arm!!! Thanks for your input and maybe it will help others.. just not me :(

JackieCalifornia

Feb 16, 2013

To: colby22

Thank you for your story!  I am new to this forum, but am already seeing improvement with added D3.

Just wanted to comment that I've been advised that the Cal/Mag combination supplement is not of the most easily absorbable materials, so it's better to get them separately (calcium and magnesium), preferably any variety ending in "-ate", like citrate or malate or asporotate or others.  Just a thought.

And also, someone told me to take the capsule form (with loose powdered material inside the capsule) rather than the hard, solid pill form.  Same reason -- easier to absorb.

JackieCalifornia

Feb 22, 2013

To: JackieCalifornia

One more tidbit from me (to me, apparently!)

I read some more this topic and have come up with the following as my current approach (which seems to be working so far):

I am drinking (lactose-free) milk for the calcium, and taking Vitamin D-3 supplements (currently in the 4,000 IU range).

It was recommended to me by a knowledgeable person to also take Vitamin K-2 --- not just "K" and not "K-1", but K-2. The reason appears to be that K-2 helps the calcium deposit itself not in muscles and tendons, but in bone and teeth, which is where it is needed most.

I also have increased my daily magnesium (Mg) intake to balance the recently increased calcium (Ca), and it seems to help as well.

Just some thoughts. Wishing you all well --

dcur3

Feb 23, 2013

To: someonewhosbeenthere

Yes, your body cannot get rid of too much vitamin D like it can some other vitamins and it can have harmful side effects. Please do research and talk to your doctor before taking vitamin D supplements.

Barbaraadams

Feb 25, 2013

To: Socrates2k1

Try a massage therapist who specializes in therapeutic massage, and describe your symptoms. Make sure they work on releasing the superior subscapularis, teres minor, and teres major. I have treated many people with these exact symptoms and had great success (after they had tried many different doctors and treatments without results). I believe the brachial nerve is being squeezed from muscle tension and/or trigger points and causing that deep, aching arm pain.

MonkaBee

Mar 05, 2013

To: Fellow sufferers

Hi I am 72 years old and have been putting down my pain to old age. Trouble is as you get older one is inclined to do this too often when there could be another explanation .My upper arm has been giving me trouble for about 6 months - I could probably trace this back to the time I had a fall. Though at the time my arm was the least of ny hurts. This has gradually gotten worse until the point now where if i forget and go to lift something or reach for something I get this sharp excruciating pain which takes a few seconds to dissipate. It leaves a burning sensation, and I confess to letting out a shriek sometimes. This ocurs on the inner part of the upper arm. I was beginning to suspect computer mouse work as I am a complete Pinterest/Facebook nut. Or knitting. Trawling looking for answers today Ifound you lot who are all going throught the same thing. (Did I say I was longwinded?). Anyway it was gratifying to find others in the same boat. I will try the extra Vit. D although I am already taking calcium/magnesuium with D daily. The other postural bedtime advice could be useful too. Thank you all so much. I hope you will all get some measure of relief very soon. Cheers dears!

goddessinga

Mar 15, 2013

To: all

I read through most of the 1st page and skimmed pages 2 and 3...so, please forgive me if I am repeating someone. I saw early on that someone mentioned intestinal issues -- I had noticed an increase in gas (belching like you wouldn't believe) over the last couple of years. Also during that time this pain in my arm started along with other pain throughout my body. It wouldn't let me sleep at all! I was on fire all the time from the imflammation. I was doing rice bags, cold packs, and a TENS unit. I tried yoga and traditional physical therapy. I started getting massages again.And then one night I found quite by accident that if I pressed down on the area that was hurting I would belch. The more I pressed and the more I belched,the less the pressure on that arm and hence the less pain. Because I was experiencing a number of other health issues, including RA and fibro, it was recommended I go gluten-free. I started out slowly and the more I realized it was working, the more vigilant I became. Then an allergist told me to cut out soy, dairy, and corn-products (especially those with corn-syrup). In no time I had abandoned the wheelchair that I'd become reliant upon six years prior and was being active and healthier. I was sleeping again. And the pain in my shoulder (and the rest of my body) while not 100% gone, were much lessened. Then, I got lazy...I caved and had fast food with my kids. I was miserable that night and swore never again. I was on fire again, and hurting and fatigued. I swore not to slip. You know how that goes - I had a soda. And then two. And the pain in my shoulder got worse with every bad choice I made. I'm back on track now, but I haven't gotten the pain completely under control. The belching is back and so is the fire. My Rheumy wants me to try dry needling, and many friends recommended acupuncture. I had a little old Vietnamese lady doing my pedicure one day and she did some reflexology - she told me my intestines were in awful shape. Has anyone else noticed any connection between foods they eat and the pain? Any belching? My pain is identical to what is being described throughout this thread. Wouldn't it be funny if many of us were having food allergies?? Well, not funny in a haha way, but wow kind of way! Also, I have to keep that shoulder completely covered almost all of the time - the slightest breeze sets it on fire and hurting.

Ok, I guess I'm not very helpful, but I wanted to share my story. Thanks.

lass1953

Mar 22, 2013

To: Oliduskah

hi i live in s wales in the uk ,had the same ploblem since last summer ,the pain is all the time been to the doctor so many time ,about 10 before she sent me to have an injection in my sholder it has helped the pain there but my elbow and lower arm and hand are still the same , been taking vit d since last year but just the one in the supermarket a cheep one ,but i did look up the side affects from citalopram a nerve tab i take 40 mg a day , like satins they can have the same side affects ,would like to know if anyone else happens to be taking this ,as prevention is the best cure

LoniJacks

Mar 26, 2013

To: loulou513

I did the same thing to mine a few years ago. It was a complete tear of my rotator cuff. Went to orthopedic surgeon and he fixed it. I did allot of rehab and afterwards had complete movement back and NO pain.

Jane0218

Mar 27, 2013

To: JaneE

I've been having bilateral upper arm pain since mid-Oct 2012. No injury.  I just woke up one day and when I moved my arms certain ways (like to put on a coat, take off a tight shirt, lift arms above my head, put my arm behind my shoulder even just a little bit), there's a searing pain that seems to resonate, and takes a while to dissipate.

I was sent to a physical therapist who has the opinion it'sThoracic Outlet Syndrome (because it's bilateral--both arms).  That means it's nerve related, if he's correct.
Have my 2nd appt tomorrow with neurologist who will do EMG testing to determine if it's nerve or muscle related.  So, I have to wait and see.
My PT said the EMG can come out fine, and I could still have Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.
Another theory (the neuro's) is a rotator cuff problem, but I have no tenderness in my should, which he thought was odd.

It's just so strange.  It remained exactly the same until about a month into physical therapy.  Then the pain came with more movements than before, and many nights it hurts terribly.

I was taking vitamin D3 and calcium and a strong Bcomplex with magnesium.  The D3 was anywhere from 2,000 to 6,000 IU per day (I was deficient about 3 years ago and have been taking 2-6,000 a day since then..  I stopped taking everything when the pain came about, because I thought maybe I took too much of something.

It's so weird how everyone I talk to has a different opinion.

Oh, a cervical MRI of my neck shows narrowing of the holes in my spine where nerves and blood vessels come out of the neck and go to the arm, but that's only on the right side---and my right arm hurts more than my left.

12peanut

Apr 02, 2013

I am 36,and for a few weeks now I have random pains in my right arm.The pain started in my wrist. The pain is in my shoulder,midarm,elbow and my hand locks up sometimes.I have trouble holding heavy objects,no strenght.The pain hurts alot at night.

Knihnicki

Apr 15, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

I am experiencing exactly what you are, exactly. Pain meds do litte, even opiods. I have little paid during the day, but the moment I try to lie down I am in agony. I don't know when the last time was that I actually slept. I did find that traction helps for a few hours. This leads me to believe that it is a nerve infringement of some kind.

Jane0218

Apr 19, 2013

Well, I had the EMG tests done and they were normal.

I also went to a shoulder orthopedist who saw xrays of my shoulders (even though the pain originated and is still in my arms) and said that I don't need surgery and then he kind of blew me off, saying maybe it's fibromyalgia (NO), and even said then it has to be depression (NO again).  He was a complete jerk, and said that my doctor sent me to him to see if I need surgery, which is NOT the case at all.
Once he saw he wasn't going to make money off of me for surgery he wasn't interested in me at all.  He said he'd have an MRI of my shoulders done, but expects that to come out fine.
I expect not to ever see that doctor again.

I am going to force my doctor to get MRIs of my shoulders AND my arms, and to do whatever they have to in order to see if I have some problems with tendons, or ligaments.

I've spent the last 1 1/2 yrs sitting on my sofa using my laptop.  I moved to a rural area 1 1/2 yrs ago and there is nothing for me to do here, so I stay at home.  Population of about 300 people, so there aren't any social activities for me to do.
I think it's the inactivity that has allowed something to change in my upper arms, and the was exacerbated up to my shoulders in the final days of my physical therapy.

I'm going to researched calcified tendonitis to see it this might fit in with bilateral upper arm pain.

Jane0218

Apr 19, 2013

I just looked up calcified tendonitis and it is supposed to show up on x-rays. I have x-rays of my shoulder, but neither the radiologist or the orthopedist mentioned anything, so do I go with that and believe them, or do I assume they weren't looking for it, so they didn't see it???

From wikipedia: calcified tendonitis
Pain is often aggravated by elevation of the arm above shoulder level or by lying on the shoulder. Pain may awaken the patient from sleep. Other complaints may be stiffness, snapping, catching, or weakness of the shoulder.
The calcific deposits are visible on X-ray as discrete lumps or cloudy areas. The deposits look cloudy on X-ray if they are in the process of re-absorption, and this is also when they cause the most pain. The deposits are crystalline when in their resting phase and like toothpaste in the re-absorptive phase. However, poor correlation exists between the appearance of a calcific deposit on plain x-rays and its consistency on needling.

jen13131340

Apr 27, 2013

To: All Right arm pain

In a car accident about a year ago and came out of it with left shoulder pain, left neck pain and left chest pain above and below collar bone. Also have pain in the muscle between elbow and shoulder....hard to lift arm without pain....now pain is bwt ribs on left side as well and shoulder blade....

had PT helped for awhile but now pain is back and worse......ruled out heart attack ,,,ekg and heart ultrasound..heart is okay but it scares me bc sometimes Im afraid to breathe hard not that I cant its the pain I get when I move the wrong way....anyone have any ideal?

brokenwing23

Apr 28, 2013

*************************SWIMMING HELPS*****************************************************************
I started to have some of the symptoms about 4 months ago. I did nothing about it. Then about 2 months ago I started to loose some of my arm movement. I went swimming for one week and it made me feel 65 to 75% better. In just one week. Then I did not have the money to join the gym so I quit going. Guess what? I continue to loose movement. I finally join the gym a week ago and I have been trying to go every day. In one week I have about extra 15% of movement back. Will let you know in a month how I'm doing. :)
**************************SWIMMING HELPS*****************************************************************

brokenwing23

Apr 28, 2013

To: QueenTutDena

Swimming helps. Please try it. I have just started, but in one week, I feel much better.

brokenwing23

Apr 28, 2013

To: 12peanut

Start swimming ASAP

Jane0218

Apr 30, 2013

To: brokenwing23

Not everyone has the ability to go somewhere and swim.

AnnnieJ

May 01, 2013

To: Knihnicki

Hello, Im sorry to hear that you are in the same boat as I was!! :( Thank goodness my pain is all gone but I can't use my arm 100% like before all this. It's about 75% usable. It is annoying but at least the pain is gone. I have trouble moving it backwards or even lets say if I have an itch on my back.. I can not reach it to scratch it!!
Not sure if it will ever be 100%!!
Hope your pain goes away soon and you can sleep!!

Dee1956

May 04, 2013

To: All

Thank you all for this wonderful thread.   I wanted to add my problem
I started having pain when I would reach behind me in what I believed was my left bicep, then it seemed to go to the outer arm, then the inner.  I can no longer reach behind me as it hurts the arm and shoulder.  Putting on a shirt or coat is very painful.  I am left handed so it is making it really difficult to use my arm.  The pain seems to be growing.
I have read some really interesting information here.
I am wondering if this could be the beginning of what I have heard refereed to as frozen shoulder. I have heard that due to the pain we stop using our arm in many ways so that at some point we can't use at all.  It feel muscular to me and my arm has large lumps as if the muscle is in spasm.  I wonder if massage would help.  There is a book on trigger points that one can massage to help with muscle spasms.
I am going to try the Vitamin D.  I used it in the past when I was having hot flashes and it seemed to help.  Ice seems to help it as well.
I hope we can all figure out what this is. The information about calcium building up is very interesting, especially since so many have found relief after taking the Vitamin D.  I have always been a big milk drinker and I take gel filled Calcium.
I hope to update soon with some good information

Dee1956

May 05, 2013

I came back to hopefully help someone.
I found this site that talks about the pain and various problems that can cause it. It talks about the trigger spots that can be massaged to try to help the pain in various areas on the arm/shoulder
http://imbuebody.com/muscle-and-joint-pain-of-the-upper-arm/

AnnnieJ

May 05, 2013

To: Dee1956

Hi Dee, Thank you for that link. I will be checking it out!! Though for me the horrible pain has gone. I can not fully use my right arm the way I used too!! You didn't mention sleep.. are you having trouble sleeping from this pain? That was horrible for me for the first few weeks!!! There are a few theories on this thread as to what it might be but I don't think any one knows for sure!! Im not a big milk drinker so I don't believe that it is calcium build up (for me) I since have started taking vitamin D, Magnesium and calcium supplements. I havent noticed any difference. I will continue taking them non the less!! Though I am happy that the pain is gone.. I wish my arm would go back to normal so i can use it the way Im supposed too!!! Hope your pain goes away quickly and thanks again for that link!! :)

evab1957

May 05, 2013

To: goddessinga

My pain started about a week ago. Woke me up in the middle of the night. Goddessinga, your post really spoke to me because about a year ago I started this food regimen and wound up pretty much giving up bread. Not intentional as I was always a carb queen, especially bread. But after going without it for 4 weeks, I found I didn't really miss it. The point is I started eating it again about a week ago. I'm wondering if this could be related to a food allergy. When I changed my eating habits a year ago (for only 3 months), I cut out sugar and white foods (white flour, white potatoes, etc). My rosacia went away. I could stop taking my allergy medicine (hayfever, etc). And I just felt better. Then one day I had regular pasta. Spent the day in the bathroom. So,.. today I bought lots of veggies and protein options. I'm hoping I see a difference because it doesn't look like anyone knows exactly what is causing the pain. I'm also going to start taking a little extra D3. Thank you to everyone who has posted here. Seeing all the people with the same problem was reassuring, as I'm sure the doctors would have just jerked me around.

Dee1956

May 06, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

Hi, I can sleep I just can't sleep on my left side.
My pain seems to be getting worse, as far as limiting my movements.
I first could not reach to put a shirt or jacket on, yesterday it was hard to pull socks up.
Right now I am trying really hard not to use the arm. I worry that this is the beginning of what they call frozen shoulder.
From what I know an injury occurs and you slowly stop using your arm in ways that hurt. As time goes one you can't use.
I am really worried but am going to continue to look for answers
Good luck to you

Jane0218

May 06, 2013

To: evab1957

I'd love to hear an update from you. I haven't made any dietary changes, but would be willing to in order to get rid of the pain in my arms.

Weesy68

May 07, 2013

To: someonewhosbeenthere

I agree you have to be careful with Vit D, but you can take the daily recommended and be okay. I too am Vit D deficient and I never thought to take this and see if my arm pain diminishes so I'm going to start today and see what happens. My arm pain is still much better since Lyme treatment, but Lyme may have damaged my peripheral nerves. Vit D is only dangerous if you take more than the daily recommended without a preexisting deficiency. It does have to be monitored if a doctor recommends any higher than the daily recommended.

Weesy68

May 07, 2013

To: sweetiepie481

I agree with sweetiepies comments except for the aspartame. But to each his own on that one. There aren't enough credible studies on the aspartame issue, but it's not something you need in your diet either. I completely agree with the ergonomic issues. This is something a physical therapist taught me and I had no idea how important it was to maintain good posture until I started doing it. It does help, but it doesn't fix the problem 100 percent. Rhomboid exercises really helped me a lot. Mine flares with no apparent cause for the flares. There are times I can work on the computer for days and have no flare and other times when I haven't used it at all and have a flare so I can't connect those two. If you haven't tried using a roller on your shoulder muscles for this issue, I promise you it is the one and only thing that gave me temporary relief when pain pills would not touch the pain. I use a longer physical therapy stick, I forget what it's called and one called the Trigger Wheel to roll out my neck muscles. When they are tight, that arm pain is bad enough that I can't use the arm and have to hold it into my chest. I can't lay on it, I can't type, nothing. If I have my husband roll both neck muscles, it relieves the pain a ton!! Because my muscles seem to spasm constantly, I have to repeat this when it's really bad, but it's the only thing that temporarily relieves the pain. You can use a rolling pin if you have one. If you feel "speed bumps" as I call them, when you roll from your neck outward to just in front of the bone in your shoulder, you have tight muscles that are causing problems. My speed bumps are muscles, not bone. Bone really hurts to roll over, so don't roll those, ha ha. But you will know after five minutes of rolling these muscles if it is partially due to muscle issues because the muscles tension will be lessened and that will lessen the arm pain. Trust me. I have been dealing with this since 2008 and I have done everything. I have learned to live with it and use these tools when it's really bad, and now I'm going to try this Vitamin D route, especially since I'm low Vit D.

Weesy68

May 07, 2013

To: evab1957

Evab, I saw my umpteenth neuro for this same pain today that started in 2008 and I think you have a point in your comment. I have been dx'd with carnitine deficiency which causes my muscles to spasm because my body doesn't properly remove lactic acid from my muscles. That's one part of my arm pain issue. When the muscles spasm the arm is so much worse. Anyway, the neuro told me today that it would help for me to see a nutritionist. Unlike you, I have to eat a high-carb, low fat diet and avoid certain types of fats. If you have problems with carbs, they should test you for celiac disease. You can be allergy tested for other ingredients as well. You can also see a nutritionist who can help you pick foods that work with your body.

jules2459

May 12, 2013

To: martina1024

I have exactly the same thing, had it for over 2 and half years no amount of painkillers work, been docs they just said pulled muscle cant seem to find anything to get rid of it. if you have any ideas please let me know. thanks

Campbellkennedy16

May 19, 2013

I've had the same exact problem for a while now. I went to the doctor a week ago and she told me to put a heating pad on it and take anti inflammatory meds. I've been taking 4 Advil every night and it does nothing for me. I wake up crying every night because it hurts and I want it to go away so bad. I just want to know how to make the pain stop. The doc told me it was overuse of my deltoid muscle due to work. I believe it's something more

Campbellkennedy16

May 19, 2013

I've had the same exact problem for a while now. I went to the doctor a week ago and she told me to put a heating pad on it and take anti inflammatory meds. I've been taking 4 Advil every night and it does nothing for me. I wake up crying every night because it hurts and I want it to go away so bad. I just want to know how to make the pain stop. The doc told me it was overuse of my deltoid muscle due to work. I believe it's something more

shimkocl

May 23, 2013

To: Campbellkennedy16

release entrapments of the Musculocutaneous Nerve, which is commonly associated with shoulder and upper arm pain. Look it up on you tube. as "flossing" that nerve. It is just very simple exercises to release pressure on the nerve . NO MEDS NECESSARY It helped me. Hope it helps others.

shimkocl

May 23, 2013

To: everyone

release entrapments of the Musculocutaneous Nerve, which is commonly associated with shoulder and upper arm pain. Look it up on you tube. as "flossing" that nerve. It is just very simple exercises to release pressure on the nerve . NO MEDS NECESSARY It helped me. Hope it helps others.

Dee1956

May 23, 2013

To: shimkocl

Thank you, I am going to Utube now. I worry that this could turn in to frozen shoulder. I have already started to limit my range of motion, I can't put my arm behind me without horrible pain in my shoulder. Can't sleep on my left side or horrible bicep/tricep pain, almost where you would get a flu shot. It is hard to describe.
D

Dee1956

May 23, 2013

To: All

Hi I looked up the calcific tendonitis that someone else mentioned. It does have to do with calcification but has nothing to do with how much calcium you ingest. I am posting this link so you can read about it. I am also going to check to see if Vit D might help.

http://www.eorthopod.com/content/calcific-tendonitis-shoulder

I hope this helps someone.

Dee1956

May 23, 2013

To: all

I just did a search for supplements for Calcific Tendonitis and the first thing that came up was Magnesium. At this point I will try anything that will allow me to sleep better :)

http://www.tendonitisexpert.com/magnesium-for-tendonitis.html

Still hoping that Vit D will help as well.

Again this site also says it doesn't matter how much calcium you take. This calcification happens when the body is out of balance. I will keep searching. Again, I hope this helps or is at least a begining

Jane0218

May 23, 2013

To: shimkocl

Re:"release entrapments of the Musculocutaneous Nerve, which is commonly associated with shoulder and upper arm pain. "
I wish I could try that, but my pain now occurs in my forearms as well as upper arms when I move my arms behind me or above my head.
I don't have shoulder pain until at night, when I go to sleep. Strange..

AnnnieJ

May 24, 2013

To: Campbellkennedy16

I am not sure about the heating pad as I didn't have one at the time that I was having very bad pains but I know that an ice pack helped right away!! Well, I was using frozen veggies and it gave me immediate relief when I would use my arm and would hurt it badly!!! Give it a try!

AnnnieJ

May 24, 2013

To: Campbellkennedy16

P.S. I don't think the doctors really know what to blame it on.
Mine happened from sleeping on my right arm. That's it!!!!!

silverfox67

May 25, 2013

Motrin (Ibuprofen) does nothing for me. I had to change to Naproxen to get some relief of my pain. I had hurt my arm turning over in bed!! It hurt to move it for several months. Taking Essiac and Naproxen helped me with the pain and I exercised - slow stretches until the pain finally stopped. Occasionally I get a spasm in my left arm, but the Essiac usually stops it and a heating pad. I also bought myself a "Shiatzu" massager which helps a whole lot. I love it when a friend gives me a massage also which relaxes those muscles. Apis is also very good for all types of pain, especially Rheumatoid Arthritis. I have postherpatic (after Shingles) pain and apis really helps with that, too. - I hope this info helps someone.

Dee1956

May 25, 2013

To: silverfox67,Annie

Thank you for your comments, they helped me

Also as Annie suggested and ice pack really helps right away for the arm pain
Thank you

Dee1956

May 25, 2013

Someone above mentioned an exercise (Flossing) in UTUBE. I took a look at it and am inserting here in the hope it (or other PT) will help

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKXxlyYpH4w

Jane0218

May 25, 2013

To: silverfox67

What kind of stretches did you do? I'd be interested in hearing about them.
What is apis?
Which kind of shiatsu massager did you buy?

evergreen639

May 26, 2013

Did you ever find out what the cause was from? I too am 42 and am having pain just as you described. It also wakes me up and I cannot sleep on that one side because of it.

Dee1956

May 27, 2013

Hello, I came back today because I think I may have discovered why I am having pain in the upper arm bicep shoulder
I have been trying to find some help.  I bought a trigger point book and found that there are neck muscles that can get very tight and then cause the same pain that everyone here is experiencing.
I am now working on my neck, the muscles (scalene) are very tight.  I started stretching them and the arm pain is much improved.
Before I found this I was beginning to feel the pain in the other arm.  I was having trouble sleeping as well.  It makes sense if you are on a pillow that pulls on the neck then the arm pain would get worse.

I am not a doctor, just a fellow patient who has been suffering.  I hope this helps someone.  I am still taking the vit D and magnesium

Jane0218

May 27, 2013

To: Dee1956

Thanks for that info. That could be why some people are experiencing pain.
My scalenes are tight and I stretch them every day.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) can also be a reason why people are experiencing upper arm pain, or pain that radiates down the arm(s). I'm trying to find out if that's what I have. TOS can involved tight scalenes too.

nogginpodge

May 28, 2013

To: white5tkiduknow

I don't know if this will be any help to you but I used to be an orthopaedic nurse and your symptoms seem to suggest rheumatoid arthritis. The fact that you are getting pain in multiple joints suggests something other than injury. Don't ignore this and don't be fobbed off, keep pushing the medics till they sort you out.

Debbuh

May 31, 2013

To: Dee1956

Please share the title of your "Trigger Point" book!

kapet

Jun 03, 2013

To: anyone that can help

I have been having this pain in the middle of my upper arm, sometimes penetrating down to the elbow. It feels like the pain is in the bone. It doesnt prevent me from typing or doing alot of things although I do feel it as a constant ache, but if I lift something, even a cup of coffee, I feel it pretty bad. Ive tried putting it in front of the jets in the hot tub, Ive taken ibuprofin and nothing seems to help. Sometimes its so bad I just want to cry. Anyone have any ideas

patty480

Jun 03, 2013

To: kapet

I had terrible pain in my shoulder blade and right arm muscle above the elbow. Went to GP - said that as it was nerve related then iboprufen, etc. would not work. Prescribed an anti-depressant for pain relief. I did not take these as this type of drug I would avoid like the plague. Eventually went to a chiropractor. Had x-rays - my neck was sitting too far forward, probably due to sitting at a desk looking at a computer for hours - and the nerves were being pinched (laymans term, not theirs). These nerves in the neck joints affect the shoulder blade and upper arm. Have just finished a course of 10 adjustments. Am feeling probably 80% better. I have no pain in my shoulder blade and an ache now and again in the arm muscle, which is actually a massive improvement as I used to cry with pain in the arm. I have neck exercises to do (rolling my shoulders back and forth without moving any other part of the body). It will probably take a while to completely heal, but self help is the answer. I would recommend chiropractic to anybody - apart from my neck I feel much fitter and more positive. Also try freeze packs on the painful parts - hot water or hot packs do not work - it has to be cold.

kapet

Jun 03, 2013

To: patty480

Thanks for your input, however, I dont have any pain at all in my neck, back, shoulder or shoulder blades. Only in the area of the middle of my upper arm that penetrates down to my elbow. I have never had problems with my posture or leaning forward while using the computer. Its just my arm. Between the pain and it feels really weak when I have to use it to lift things.

kapet

Jun 03, 2013

To: patty480

If you have any more ideas please let me know.

Thanks

AnnnieJ

Jun 04, 2013

To: kapet

We all feel your pain..or have felt your pain here!! As I once said.. no one (most) do not know where or how they got this or why. My pain has started while laying on my right arm while sleeping. If you read all of our posts you will get some answers. What I have found is an ice pack right on top of the middle arm where the pain is really helped me (for the moment)!! That is the only thing that gave me relief... and time!! Takes a long time but eventually the pain gets less and less. My pain is gone but if I lift something the wrong way I can feel this strange feeling and I always worry that the pain will come back. It hasn't yet though and I have trouble reach back still!! I try not to lay on that arm. I do once in awhile but not for long periods of time!! Just think before lifting or using your arm for now..be very careful and do it slowly is all I can say!! Give it time.. there is nothing else you can really do. :(

mucco

Jun 04, 2013

To: loulou513

I had a shot of cortisone yesterday (3rd one), but he injected the top back part of my shoulder. Yesterday I could hardly move it and it had been severely painful for about a year, today I have almost full range with pain but not nearly as much. I'm not a great cortisone fan with it's side effects but yesterday it was sure worth it.Hope it works for you. Mike

silverfox67

Jun 05, 2013

To: Jane0218

Cortizone is great for those not allergic to corticosteroids. I can't use even a hydrocortizone cream. Makes my tendons hard as a rock and I've heard some medications can actually break tendons. My Mom had surgery on her shoulder as she had an impingement following a fall. Her arm still hurts some, but she says it's okay with a linament such as arthritis cream. - Swimming is definitely a great exercise if it's not overdone. - Stretches especially of the shoulder muscles really help. Actually a tensing of those muscles or reaching over your head if you can and pulling on your head/neck gently first one way then the other. By the way, I have been reading about Ashwaganda and found that it is a natural anti-inflammatory. Since my doctor says that my whole body is inflamed, I hope to buy some this Thursday at the health food store. - Apis is made from whole bees. And it really works on pain. - The Shiatsu massager I bought has two "balls" that rotate. I put mine on the sofa behind me and lean into it. Be careful not too lean too hard as it will aggravate instead of help the situation. I hope we can all find some relief from this pain. So sorry this happened to so many...

sjcctan

Jun 05, 2013

To: Everyone who is in pain!

Hello, everyone,

I found this site when searching for "Cause of upper arm pain". I would like to share a very effective and very easy to learn therapy called "Origin Point Therapy".
It was invented by a TCM doctor from Taiwan. His name is Dr Chang Chao Han. The following is a brief description of the therapy:

"Origin-Point Therapy is consisted of a set of principles and a set of techniques to treat diseases. The principles are radical, even from the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective. For example, it states that the cause of illnesses is due to injury to the jin (Simplified Chinese: 筋). Therefore, when the damage to the jin is repaired, the illness is cured. Virus, bacteria, and other microbes are not in the equation of treatments of diseases, and so there is no antibiotic medication in Origin-Point Therapy. Typically, Origin-Point Therapy treatment involves nothing more than massages of the origin-points along the spine or limbs and application of warm pad on certain points of the body. The technique is simple, and yet the result is immediate and typically, amazing too. "

The English manual can be downloaded from http://cch-foundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Booklet_EN.pdf.

Please watch this video on Youtube for the treatment for the upper arm pain. It is in Mandarin, but the technique is very easy to understand and follow:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4aQ__ZXAcI&list=PL6B27E63FCD136BD8&index=6

The red lines shown in the video are the "Origin Points" to be treated. You will feel pain on the "Origin Points" and that is the cause of your arm pain.

kapet

Jun 05, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

Thank you!!! I have an ice pack on it as we speak. (or type). It does help. I also took some Motrin. Im telling you. Just to lift a small plastic cup of water from the water cooler feels like its straining. Ugh! Ill keep using the ice and taking Motrin or Ibuprofen. Thanks again!!!

Just_Dave

Jun 05, 2013

To: All

Wow i've never read something on the net thats largely dominated females of medical conditions in general on a subject :)

just remember theses things

1. are you left handed or the apposing handed, the oppersate arm carries your weight even when you dont release it. eg your reading a book you turn your pages with the opposing arm and resting your head upon it whiles reading your book say you take an hour to read that now your arm is in an apex for that time carrying the weight of your upper body "loss of curcualtion, stressing your joint's n muscles & ligaments ect.

using chemicals without gloves simple things like dish washing liquid yes simple things like this that soak into your skin then muscles ect and causing problems your arms from hands to shoulders are most in contact (agents or chemical) arnt safe regardless whats stated on the label just remember this e.g bleach soaks into your body (arms) then works it way out this is when it cause problems, soap agents stay on your skin then soaks in causing problems.

this is also related to creams an alike there all chemical agents regardless what indicated on the label, labels are a description of that retail item and a description of what the manufacture will release by guidelines but they wont release the full affect or description of the item find this info of the net "thanks for the internet"

just think about what your do and how your doing it and things you handle yes females are more pron-ed to chemicals in relation to there life style n yes even us fella's sometimes due to work n life style in all sense think about what your doing even reading a book cause you harm if your not aware of your actions you might laugh about it but think about it :)

we dont have to have a medical degree, just think of what your doing :) an just remember our bodies are sponges when we handle things, as we age our bodies become less resistant to what we handle and side affects become relevant.

this has to do with life in general if you think healthy an apply this you become healthy, even when you arnt an feeling unwell from that moment your body has a chance to recover an a path to become healthy once again :)

AnnnieJ

Jun 06, 2013

To: kapet

Im glad you tried the ice pack!!! Yes, the lightest thing feels like you are lifting a ton!! I hope you feel better soon!!!

kapet

Jun 06, 2013

To: AnnnieJ

Thanks!!

kapet

Jun 06, 2013

To: Just_Dave

I guess we should all be wrapped up in bubble wrap. But then again... Im sure we all like to pop bubble wrap, so we will be back to square 1 once all bubbles are popped. Lol! But seriously thanks for your input. Totally makes sense.

LisaRay888

Jun 08, 2013

To: Everyone

6wks ago I woke up with neck pain. 1 wk later it was not better, so I went to the orthopedic dr. The day I went to see the dr I couldn't use my right arm. He did X-rays and MRI on neck and arms. He could not see anything wrong. I started physical theropy. Dr acts as if I am a crazy lady just wanting drugs (which he said he will not give me anymore). My arm causes me so much pain it hurts to dress brush teeth blow dry n curl hair. I'm a smoker and would even thump ashes on my nice car floor board because I could not lift arm to reach to thump out of window. 4 weeks of theropy and it was good last wk. today it came back worst than ever. Can not believe how many have this same problem. All I want to do is sleep. The pain takes so much out of me that I have to rest a lot to work and do the functions I am required to do.

Dee1956

Jun 10, 2013

To: Debbuh

Hi, sorry just saw this
It is by Clair Davies and it is called The Trigger Point Manual. You can look up your pain and it will tell you what it might be as far as painful areas in the body. Much of the pain is refereed from another place in the body.
So feeling pain in my shoulder upper arm could be the neck muscles
Good luck

laruebridge

Jun 10, 2013

To: Dee1956

I tried it 3 days ago when I found out from this site, have been doing it throughout the day and it is working for me. I can now sleep better and I can lay on that arm. With quick sharp movements it still hurts some but I am going to continue flossing, perhaps that too will go away. My pain was more acute at night (why???) in the daytime it was a dull pain (except sharp movements). I had been having this pain for about 3 months and it came from out of nowhere. And like someone here noted it felt in my bone, it was very difficult to really explain what it felt like to medical staff. Keeping my fingers crossed that all it needed is some nerve flossing.

laruebridge

Jun 10, 2013

To: shimkocl

Thank you for this information, I have been flossing now for 3 days and it does seem to be working.

JudiLynne

Jun 13, 2013

To: cassie101350

These seem to be my exact identical symptoms. VERY uncomfortable. Interesting reading about the chairs, too. We recently got a new car, a crossover, and I sit higher and very differently in that car. I also sit for hours in front of a computer and feel it is most likely associated with that as well. Hope you all find an answer, perhaps it will help me!

JudiLynne

Jun 13, 2013

To: Dee1956

I went to YouTube as suggested here, and checked out flossing of the nerve that can be creating all this pain. It's called the Musculocutaneous Nerve and all they do is show you some simple exercises so that the nerve will release and stretch and this will alleviate your pain. I'll know better later, but everything does feel a little looser, and believe me, I didn't do much stretching! So I'll be doing some more. Good luck! Hope we all feel better!