What would cause sharp pains that radiate down arm after a shoulder injury?

Answer 1

If the pain radiates to the fingers (typically the ring and pinky fingers) and can be felt down the nerve path (typical of sharp pains) from the shoulder down the arm, then the problem is likely in the Cervical spine and not the shoulder. Few people realize that the nerves which control the arms run from the cervical spine through the shoulder and into the arms and hands.

The problem feels like it's a pinched nerve in the shoulder, but the pain radiates down the nerve path, usually on the outside of the bicep then down the inner part of the arm to the hand. You usually don't feel much, if anything, in the neck unless the disk injury is severe enough.

The only way to determine a cervical disk problem is to see a Neurosurgeon, and imaging of the cervical spine (CT or MRI) are taken. This is a problem they deal with every day, and most can tell just by looking at you without an exam if the injury is severe enough. It's important not to waste any time either - left untreated or undiagnosed, the problem will cause increasing pain to the point where your fingers will begin to go numb and the use of the arm is severely restricted within a matter of weeks. Limiting physical activity is important as well, as further injury can cause permanent damage.

If the problem is disk related, the pain is usually constant and severe to the point where most people find it difficult to deal with. It can be helped with anti-inflammatories, but until it's diagnosed by MRI or CT it's only a temporary option. It's important also to never ask for pain meds directly, and to see a nerve specialist as opposed to an Orthopedist, Osteopath, or similar doctor. Asking for pain meds can get you labeled as a "drug seeker", and if so tagged you'll find it impossible to get an accurate diagnosis.

Answer 2

You don't say an age but this type of symptom can be associated with Angina. This is a heart condition where the heart muscle does not receive the amount of oxygen that it requires. The symptom would usually become worse with activity. You need to see a doctor. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

According to my GP, my shoulder pain is caused by a pinched nerve in my neck brought about by cervical disc degeneration at C3-4.

Answer 4

I would guess carproletunnel syndrome. I believe that is how to spell it.