Pulled upper back muslce, now numbness in elbow and right hand

[southernmaryland]

Hello there.

I am a pretty active guy, but was working in the garden the other day and was using a hoe to break up the ground, and the next day I realized I had pulled a muscle in my side right to upper middle back. I assume it's my trap as I have pulled it before, but this time is different. Also, the pull seems to be climbing up the back right side of my neck. I have had the same exact pull before in the middle right side of my back and in the neck and I know this is the trap muscle, but it's much worse this time its worse than before. I have tingling in my elbow, forearm, palm of hand and thumb and index finger.  I know it's a nerve, and assume it's the swollen muscle tissue pinching or putting pressure on it. It's been 3 days so far, and the tingling is kind of freaking me out. I've never had this happen. I've been taking ibuprofen for the pain and applying heating pads and I feel relief, but the tingling is what I am worried about. Thanks for the help.

Cheers

[Michael L Gross, MD]

It sounds like an inflammed cervical nerve. Usually, rest, ice, and NSAID's are the first line. If the pain persists, or there is progressive numbness or weakness, its time to see a physician.

[southernmaryland]

Update. Back is feeling better, and the numbness has all but gone away. My hand was becoming numb as I was spending large amounts of time in bed laying on my back, and I assume the pressure was pushing on the nerve or perhaps it was the angle of my arm. Regardless, I'm still worried about that symptom. PLease let me know what I can do about rehab or my next steps, this injury keeps recurring. Thank you.