I Have Severe Pain In My Upper Arms. Sharp Pain

Posted on Sun, 27 Jan 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : I have severe pain in my upper arms. Sharp pain that at times goes down to my elbow and up to my neck. Especially after being immobile such as in the middle of the night of in the morning.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (49 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Probably a pinched nerve, follow the advice below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear and welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

Your symptoms seem to be related to a pinched nerve.

This diagnosis is commonly related to the pressure applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues.

I recommend using anti inflammatory medication to relieve the pain such as Acetominophen 500 mg three tablets a day.

I also recommend to rest the arms and avoid lifting heavy objects.

I suggest physical activity as you mentioned in the query.

Warm compresses at the area of the arms can help in relieving the symptoms.

If the symptoms continue you can consult an orthopedist for a splint to use during the night to immobilize the area.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad