Do you experience a burning pain in upper right arm between elbow and shoulder? You’re not alone! Shoulder pain is a very common ailment, and it can be caused by a number of issues. Understanding the potential causes, how to get diagnosed, and what treatment options are available can help you find relief and get back to your daily activities.
What Causes Burning Pain in the Upper Right Arm?
A variety of conditions can lead to a burning pain in upper right arm between elbow and shoulder. Sometimes the pain resolves quickly on its own, but other times, a person may require treatment from a doctor. Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Rotator Cuff Issues: Problems like tendinitis or bursitis in the rotator cuff can cause pain in the shoulder and upper arm. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize your upper arm bone in the shoulder socket, and issues can arise from overuse or injury.
- Nerve Irritation or Damage: Nerve damage or irritation can manifest as a burning or tingling sensation. Conditions like brachial neuritis or thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) can compress nerves around the collarbone and first rib, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm and shoulder.
- Shoulder Bursitis: Also known as subacromial bursitis, this condition involves inflammation of the bursa sacs in the shoulder, leading to aching or burning pain. The pain may worsen when raising your arm or putting pressure on the affected side.
- Referred Pain: In some instances, pain in the shoulder and arm may originate from other areas of the body. Certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, lung disease, or gallbladder disease, can cause referred pain in the right shoulder and arm.
Symptoms Associated with Burning Pain
The symptoms of a burning pain in upper right arm between elbow and shoulder can vary depending on the underlying cause. In addition to the burning sensation, you may experience:
- Pain when moving your shoulder or arm
- Swelling, stiffness, or tenderness
- Loss of range of motion
- Weakness in the shoulder or arm
- Tingling or “pins and needles” in your hand or fingers
How is Burning Shoulder and Arm Pain Diagnosed?
If you’re experiencing persistent or severe burning pain in upper right arm between elbow and shoulder, seeking a professional diagnosis is essential. A healthcare provider will typically conduct a physical examination, review your medical history, and may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to determine the root cause of your pain.
Treatment Options for Burning Pain in the Upper Right Arm
The treatment approach for burning shoulder and arm pain will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. Some common treatment options include:
- Rest and Ice: For mild cases, resting the affected arm and applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises and stretches to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your shoulder and arm.
- Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, such as NSAIDs or corticosteroids, may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
- Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered into the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues to provide targeted pain relief.
- Surgery: If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgery may be considered to address structural issues, such as rotator cuff tears or nerve compression.
Experiencing a burning pain in upper right arm between elbow and shoulder can significantly impact your quality of life. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can find relief and restore function to your arm and shoulder. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, contact us at The Orthopaedic & Pain Practice today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life!