What If I Have Recurring Arm Pain After an Injury?

Experiencing arm pain after an injury is not uncommon; however, when the pain becomes recurring, it can significantly impact your daily activities and quality of life. At the Allied Pain & Spine Institute in San Jose, CA, we understand the complexity of managing and treating these types of injuries.

Our pain management team investigates potential causes of recurring arm pain and explores ways to help you find relief.

What Causes Recurring Arm Pain?

Are you experiencing persistent arm pain after healing from a recent injury? Here are some possible causes:

• Muscle Strain or Sprain: After an injury, muscle strains are a common outcome. If they don’t heal properly, the muscles can remain sensitive or continue to strain, leading to recurring pain.
• Tendinitis: This condition occurs when the tendons that connect muscles to bones become inflamed. Activities such as repetitive lifting can trigger this response after an injury, causing chronic pain.
• Nerve Damage: Injuries can sometimes lead to nerve damage, resulting in symptoms like shooting pain, tingling or numbness. Conditions like thoracic outlet syndrome can also be a result of previous injuries, causing intermittent pain due to nerve compression.
• Joint Issues: Injuries can lead to conditions such as arthritis or other joint-related problems, particularly if the joints were previously damaged. Inflammation and joint instability can contribute to recurrent pain.
• Scar Tissue: The body forms scar tissue after injury, which can limit flexibility and contribute to chronic pain. This tissue can also press on nerves and surrounding structures, leading to discomfort.
• Overuse or Re-injury: Sometimes, previously injured areas are more susceptible to future injuries, especially if they are not fully rehabilitated and healed. Overusing an arm that hasn’t healed properly can lead to recurring pain.

Why Does Recurring Pain Occur?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke affirms that chronic pain, like recurring arm pain after an injury, can result from a combination of physiological and psychological factors. Chronic pain can lead to changes in the nervous system, making your body more sensitive to pain signals. Additionally, fear of re-injury can lead individuals to unconsciously protect the arm, which can trigger more pain.

How Allied Pain & Spine Institute Can Help

At the Allied Pain & Spine Institute, we employ a multidisciplinary approach to effectively treat recurring arm pain. Our team of pain management experts utilizes advanced techniques and therapies focused on tailored patient care. Here’s how we can help:

• Comprehensive Assessment: The first step in our approach is a thorough evaluation of your medical history, physical condition and pain patterns. We utilize diagnostic imaging when necessary, including X-rays or MRI scans, to gain a complete understanding of your injury and pain.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: After understanding the cause of your recurring pain, we develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include medication management, physical therapy or interventional procedures aimed at targeted relief.
• Physical Therapy: Our physical therapy services focus on rehabilitating the injured arm through specialized exercises, stretching routines and strength-building activities. This treatment can enhance mobility, restore function and reduce the likelihood of re-injury.
• Pain Management Techniques: We offer a range of pain relief techniques, including nerve blocks, epidural steroid injections and trigger point injections. These procedures target specific areas of pain and inflammation, providing relief when other methods are ineffective.
• Education and Support: We believe education is a key component of effective pain management. Our team will provide information about your condition and coping mechanisms, empowering you to take an active role in your recovery.
• Psychological Counseling: For many patients, chronic pain can lead to emotional distress. We can connect you with counselors experienced in pain management to help address any psychological factors that may be contributing to your pain.

FAQs About Arm Pain

What should I do immediately after an arm injury?

It’s essential to rest the injured arm, apply ice to reduce swelling and keep it elevated. Consulting with a healthcare provider for a thorough examination is also crucial.

When should I seek medical attention for arm pain?

If your arm pain is severe, relentless, doesn’t improve with rest or home care or is accompanied by swelling, numbness or difficulty moving it, it’s time to see a doctor.

Are there any exercises I should avoid with recurring arm pain?

Avoid any activities that exacerbate the pain. It’s best to consult a physical therapist or a medical professional to identify safe exercises for your condition.

Can stress lead to arm pain?

Yes, stress can manifest as muscular tension, resulting in discomfort in various parts of the body, including the arms. Managing stress through relaxation techniques can alleviate some symptoms.

How long can arm pain last after an injury?

The duration of arm pain varies widely depending on the nature of the injury and its appropriate management. Some may resolve in weeks, while chronic pain can persist for months or longer without effective treatment.

San Jose CA Arm Pain Treatment

Recurring arm pain after an injury can be frustrating and debilitating, impacting various aspects of life. At the Allied Pain & Spine Institute, our team is committed to helping you understand the causes of your pain and providing personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.

If you’re struggling with arm pain that won’t go away, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert care and management. Your journey toward recovery starts here!

Posted on behalf of Allied Pain & Spine Institute