What Causes Pain In Left Arm And Chest?

Posted on Sat, 25 Oct 2014

Question: I have pain in my left arm and chest off an on for some time now. I noticed that in last couple of days I can barely lift my arm without pain. it starts in my left breast then under my armpit and then into the arm. It feels like I should feel a lump somewhere (almost like a bruise) but when I order my doc feel around there is nothing. I am concerned it might be heart. I am 45.

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
shouler joint inflammation may be the cause

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for posting
I have gone through your query carefully and understand your concern. To help you better please tell me about-
1.Range of movement at left shoulder as compare to right ?
2.Is the pain is more at night? And what conditions increases the pain?
3.Is there any sweating,palpitations along with chest pain?
Looking forward to your reply.
Going by the description of pain it does not looks to be related to heart.It goes more in favour of shoulder inflammation.
Take care .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Mukesh Chugh (1 hour later)

Yes there are noticeable palpitations, shortness of breath. palpitations are obviously worse when I'm upset, but the overall pain in my breast and underarm are fairly consistent throughout the day. I do notice at night I have trouble using the arm when I roll over. It is disturbing enough that I'm worried about it as a feeling that something is terribly wrong.

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
As follows

Detailed Answer:
Hi
It's good to see you
I have gone through your reply and it is highly suggestive of shoulder joint inflammation, most likely rotator cuff inflammation/ frozen shoulder. Having said that, ECG is recommended to assess the health of heart and to allay your fear.

My suggestions would be -
1. Hot water fomentation, gentle neck and shoulder exercises.
2. Ibuprofen especially at bedtimes helps along with prescription only muscle relaxant drug like thiocolchicoside.
3. Physiotherapy in form of TENS and Short wave diathermy helps.
4. Injection cortisone may be given inside the shoulder joint in resistant cases

Hope your query is answered. Wishing you early recovery.
Regards

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar