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What are the Causes of Forearm Pain?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Forearm pain sometimes shows up without an obvious cause, such as an accident or sudden injury. Sudden pain in one or both forearms may baffle anyone suffering from it, but there are various conditions that can cause it, and most involve the muscles. It is often necessary to visit the doctor to officially diagnose the issue, but some causes include tendinitis, muscle strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and even a heart attack.

Tendinitis occurs when the tendons, which connect the muscle to the bone, become inflamed. The inflammation typically starts in a tendon in the elbow and then spreads to the forearm. Tendinitis is usually caused by overuse, aging, and injury, though many sufferers of this condition get it as a result of playing sports like tennis and golf. It is sometimes referred to as either golfer's or tennis elbow. In order to heal, the area must be rested for a few months in most cases, though surgery or steroid shots are sometimes also required.

Typing can cause forearm pain.
Typing can cause forearm pain.

Another common cause of forearm pain is muscle strain, which usually occurs when the muscle has been stretched to the point of tearing. This can happen to those who play sports, exercise frequently, or lift heavy items improperly. Fortunately, most treatment for muscle strain can be performed at home, as ice, elevation, rest, and pain relievers are usually the best ways to heal this kind of forearm pain. Severe cases may need professional medical treatment, however, especially if the condition does not improve with several days of home treatment.

Playing sports such as tennis may increase the chances of tendinitis.
Playing sports such as tennis may increase the chances of tendinitis.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause forearm pain in those who perform the same arm or hand movements often. Those who type on a computer keyboard daily, work on an assembly line, or use repetitive hand movements for their hobbies are particularly at risk for forearm pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. For example, golfing, rowing, tennis, and knitting can all lead to this condition. Typically, discomfort and tingling occur in the wrist and hand, but the pain can travel up the forearm and even to the shoulder. Rest and pain relievers can often improve mild cases, but surgery may be required for severe cases of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Sudden pain in the forearm is often caused by a muscle issue.
Sudden pain in the forearm is often caused by a muscle issue.

Although not widely known as a symptom, forearm pain in the left arm can actually be a precursor to a heart attack. It may be sudden, radiating quickly from the shoulder to the forearm, or it may be a constant pain that lasts for days. Either way, pain in the left arm that cannot be explained by most causes of forearm pain typically deserves a trip to the doctor. This is especially true in the presence of chest pain, anxiety, sweating, and nausea.

Discussion Comments

cherylavila

Forearm pain is more dangerous than any other kind of pain. You should visit to a chiropractor as soon as possible. They will treat you without using drugs which is good for your health.

anon139322

I once suffered from tennis elbow and I found a product that really helped. It was called the forearmrx. If you look online you should be able to find it. It is a self massager for the forearm, and it works very well. I hope this helps!-Lindsay

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    • Typing can cause forearm pain.
      By: strixcode
      Typing can cause forearm pain.
    • Playing sports such as tennis may increase the chances of tendinitis.
      By: Galina Barskaya
      Playing sports such as tennis may increase the chances of tendinitis.
    • Sudden pain in the forearm is often caused by a muscle issue.
      By: ruigsantos
      Sudden pain in the forearm is often caused by a muscle issue.
    • Forearm and chest pain may be the sign of a heart attack.
      By: highwaystarz
      Forearm and chest pain may be the sign of a heart attack.
    • Those who work in a vocation that requires swinging a hammer may frequently notice sore forearms.
      By: Karen Roach
      Those who work in a vocation that requires swinging a hammer may frequently notice sore forearms.
    • Ice packs can be used to treat forearm pain.
      By: michelaubryphoto
      Ice packs can be used to treat forearm pain.
    • Commonly used to treat tennis elbow, an elbow sleeve provides pressure and support for muscles and connective tissues around the forearm and elbow.
      By: Julián Rovagnati
      Commonly used to treat tennis elbow, an elbow sleeve provides pressure and support for muscles and connective tissues around the forearm and elbow.
    • Warm baths can help relieve muscle soreness.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Warm baths can help relieve muscle soreness.
    • A brace may be worn to reduce forearm pain caused by an injured wrist.
      By: mady70
      A brace may be worn to reduce forearm pain caused by an injured wrist.
    • Improperly lifting heavy items can cause forearm pain.
      By: iceteastock
      Improperly lifting heavy items can cause forearm pain.