Arm Pain

What causes arm pain?

Pain in your arm can generate from any number of causes, from angina to carpal tunnel syndrome. But conditions that affect the bones in your neck, referred to as the cervical spine, can also lead to arm pain.

Cervical spine conditions that may cause arm pain include:

Herniated disc

A herniated disc occurs when the soft jelly center of your vertebra pushes through its tough exterior and irritates the nerves that run along your spinal cord. The nerve irritation can lead to pain that runs into your arm

Cervical spinal stenosis

Cervical spinal stenosis is the narrowing of your spinal canal, which causes a compression of your spinal nerves. In addition to arm pain, you may also experience neck pain and numbness or tingling in your hands.

Cervical disc degeneration

Cervical disc degeneration is arthritis in the joints that make up your neck. It develops from the general wear and tear your joints endure throughout your life. As your bones rub together, bone spurs develop, which irritate the nerves and cause arm pain.

An injury to your neck, such as whiplash, may also generate pain that leads into your arm.

How do I know the cause of my arm pain?

Dr. Hennessy determines the cause of your arm pain after a comprehensive evaluation. During your examination, it’s important that you be as detailed as possible when describing your pain and discomfort so he can pinpoint the problem. To confirm a diagnosis, Dr. Hennessy may recommend diagnostic testing, such as an MRI or X-ray.

What treatments can improve my cervical spine?

Dr. Hennessy creates a personalized treatment plan for you that focuses on the root cause of your pain and helps you get the most relief with the least amount of intervention. Dr. Hennessy may be a surgeon, but surgery is usually the last thing he recommends.

Depending on the cause of your arm pain, Dr. Hennessy may recommend:

• Pain management
• Physical therapy
• Nerve blocks
• Massage therapy

If surgery is recommended, Dr. Hennessy develops a surgical plan that again aims to get you the most benefits using the least invasive measures possible. Texas Spine Consultants, LLP is an advanced surgical center that offers the most current techniques and medical devices, including the Mobi-C® artificial cervical disc, which can replace your diseased or damaged disc and help you maintain optimum neck movement.   

For a diagnosis and treatment plan for your arm pain, call the experts at Texas Spine Consultants, LLP, or book an appointment using the online booking button.