What Can Cause Pain In The Neck Radiating To The Arm?

Posted on Wed, 23 Aug 2023

Question: I started having neck pain a couple of days ago and now its in my left arm

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Get examined and evaluated by a neurologist

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Neck pain with radiation to arm is most likely cervical radiculopathy due to nerve root compression.

You should visit and consult a neurologist for examination and management advice.

Cervical spine MRI may be done.

Avoid lifting heavy objects overhead.

Isometric neck exercise can be done under trained physiotherapist guidance.

Pain killer like aceclofenac or etoricoxib can be taken along with muscle relaxants like thiocolchicoside or tizanidine.

Local pain reliever ointment helps too.

Pain modulatory drugs like pregabalin or Gabapentin or amitriptyline can be taken.

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

Regards,
Dr. Neeraj Kumar, Neurologist

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

Follow up: Dr. Neeraj Kumar (8 minutes later)

There's no chance this is signs of a heart attack

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Get evaluation as advised

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Pain of heart attack spreads over anterior and lateral neck and mandibular region with radiation to arm and forearm medially.

It is severe, related to exertion and associated with uneasiness, sweating and palpitations.

If you have such features, urgently contact a doctor.

Hope I have answered your query.

Regards,
Dr. Neeraj Kumar, Neurologist

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

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