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What Causes Burning Sensation In Armpits Radiating To Arms And Upper Back?
Question: I have burning under both armpits with the burning radiating down my arms, and in my upper back.
Brief Answer:
Sounds like nerve inflammation.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
I am sorry you are having this burning sensation. Burning sensation that radiates is usually caused by inflamed nerve(s). There is a large nerve that goes thru the arm pit and down the arms. The fact that it is happening in both arms makes me think that you strained your upper body somehow, perhaps by reaching overhead, or lifting. Sometimes this can happen if you sleep with your upper arms up, too.
If the burning was in just one arm, and the same side upper back, I would also consider shingles as this can give a burning sensation even before eruptions occur, but given that it is in both arms, I think it unlikely.
If there is no loss of sensation, numbness, or noticeable weakness, you can treat it at home and see if it will resolve. Rest this part of your body as much as possible for now and take an NSAID if you don't have any contraindications to taking it. Reasons not to take NSAIDs are a history of stomach problems, any history of gastrointestinal bleeding, or kidney deficiencies. If you can take ibuprofen, take 1-3 300mg tablets 3x/day after eating for 1 week. Be sure it is after eating so that the pill doesn't bother your stomach. If the pain continues, then do go in to be examined, where the doctor can take a look and check your range of motion in your shoulder,etc.
I hope this information helps and you are soon feeling better.
Sounds like nerve inflammation.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
I am sorry you are having this burning sensation. Burning sensation that radiates is usually caused by inflamed nerve(s). There is a large nerve that goes thru the arm pit and down the arms. The fact that it is happening in both arms makes me think that you strained your upper body somehow, perhaps by reaching overhead, or lifting. Sometimes this can happen if you sleep with your upper arms up, too.
If the burning was in just one arm, and the same side upper back, I would also consider shingles as this can give a burning sensation even before eruptions occur, but given that it is in both arms, I think it unlikely.
If there is no loss of sensation, numbness, or noticeable weakness, you can treat it at home and see if it will resolve. Rest this part of your body as much as possible for now and take an NSAID if you don't have any contraindications to taking it. Reasons not to take NSAIDs are a history of stomach problems, any history of gastrointestinal bleeding, or kidney deficiencies. If you can take ibuprofen, take 1-3 300mg tablets 3x/day after eating for 1 week. Be sure it is after eating so that the pill doesn't bother your stomach. If the pain continues, then do go in to be examined, where the doctor can take a look and check your range of motion in your shoulder,etc.
I hope this information helps and you are soon feeling better.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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