Suggest Treatment For Soreness In Arm And Shoulder

Posted on Tue, 9 Dec 2014

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

Tue, 9 Dec 2014 Answered on

Mon, 5 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have got a really sore arm and shoulder . I have been slamming previously but not lately. I did a get a lump that was infected months ago. I told the doctor I had been bitten

I did sleep funny and had a sore shoulder about 3 weeks back and have been having problems ever since. If I don't take nay pain killers I am unable to sleep

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
I suspect Tendonitis or Bursitis, inflammation of the soft tissues in the shoulder

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question. It sounds like you have developed a tendonitis or bursitis.

This is an inflammation of tendon or bursa (the protective capsule around joints).

Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and ice pack are good for this.

Gentle stretching can also help.

If the problem persists you may need to go for an x-ray or to physical therapy.

Good luck to you and I hope you find a solution and relief of your pain soon.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Kathy Robinson (21 hours later)

I have had this problem for about 3 weeks. I have taken ibuprofen but that doesn't help a lot as I have a dull ache which I can't sleep with. I have been taking solphadine but know this should only be taken short term

I often don't have pain in my shoulder but is in my upper or lower arm. especially if I press on my tendons...

Is there any change it is blood poisoning or a broken blood vessel or am I just getting myself worked up. What would the symptons be if it were these!

Sorry - I am a bit of a drama queen !

Thanks
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No problem, we love questions

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX, sorry about delay in answering, I was traveling and just landed. It really sounds more like tendonitis. If it were blood poisoning, it would no just affect one area of your body, you would be quite sick, probably with fevers. If it were a broken blood vessel there would be swelling and extensive bruising. Even if it were a broken vessel, it would heal up, but that too would take some time. Keep trying the ibuprofen, ice and gentle stretches. If it does not heal up soon see your doctor or a physical therapist. Good luck to you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad