How Can Muscle Spasms In The Arm And Forearm Be Treated?

Posted on Mon, 19 Jun 2017

Question: I was dragged by my vehicle about 20 ft after forgetting to put it in park. I now have what feels like muscle spasms in my left forearm and upper arm when applying pressure to it (such as using my left hand/arm to reposition myself or open bottles etc) x rays of shoulder and elbow came back fine and there is no bruising or swelling. There is pain in my elbow if I place it down to rest my head on my hand (My arm was in a sling from Tuesday evening to Thursday evening which might explain the elbow pain). What could be the reason for this muscle spasm/ cramping I feel? I have no problem straightening the arm or tucking it behind my back to put a bra on but lifting the arm above my shoulder to put my hair up or wash my hair is painful and causes the same spasm reaction.

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Muscle oedema

Detailed Answer:
Hi there

Thanks for the query

According to your history, it always that there may be a primary affection of the shoulder joint and arm region.

It was wise of your Doctor to advise a shoulder MRI.

The feeling of muscle spasm in your arm and forearm are due to internal oedema in the muscles. Apply warm packs to increase the local blood supply. Perform range of movement exercises.

Avoid painful movements till your MRI is available.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Dr. Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (13 hours later)

Whenever I attempt ROM exercise the myscle spasms and i hear a pop come from my shoulder

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Cartilage or ligament damage

Detailed Answer:
The pop indicates tight muscles and possibly a cartilage or ligament tear.

The shoulder MRI will help find out the cause. Do apply warm packs to the affected region.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy