low dosage synthroid and arm pain

[niknakpatty]

At the same time I started taking the smallest amount of synthroid, my right arm started giving my problems -- from lack of strength, to a burning sensation, to hurting when I squeeze my toothpaste, and to a dull ache at night.  I work in the dairy department at a grocery store and have taken a couple of weeks off to see if the pain would stop but it continued.  I then stopped my daily dose of synthroid and the pain is getting better.  I have a hard time believing that the two could be related.  My research just shows that leg cramps may be a side effect but have found nothing about arm pain (and only one arm at that).  I would really appreciate any advice you could give me.  Thanks so much.

[stella5349]

I am not Dr Lupo - but I have similiar situations with my hypothyroid disease.

Actually muscle weakness and loss of muscle tissue can be a side effect of Hypothyroidism. What are your TSH levels now? Posting any blood test may help the doctor. How long have you been on your Synthroid?

You could also have strained the muscle in that arm b/c most commonly hypothyroidism will effect many joints and muscles instead of being in one location.

[Boris101]

Hi,

I also have shoulder pain starting at my right shoulder and spreading down my arm.  Someone had suggested that it may be a condition called "frozen shoulder" which can be related to certian thyroid problems.  I am not currently on any meds, but I just got labs back that indicate much higher than normal T3 level.

[Papalheart]

Hi,
   I just started a low dose of Levoxyl 50mcg, and have severe right shoulder pain that radiates down the right arm, I thought I was crazy till I read your question.
   It is most noticable when I wake up, and stays painful most of the day.  Usually the third dose of naproxen starts to help, which is about the time to go to bed, and wake up with the pain again.
   Any information is helpful.
   Thanks!
   Theresa

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

It is difficult to know if the cramps are due to the hypothyroidism itself or the levothyroxine (ie synthroid) -- or simply too much levothyroxine.  If you have hypothyroidism, it is not a good idea to stop meds altogether -- work with your doctor to find the right dose that keeps your TSH around 1.0 or so.