Forearm Pain: What’s the Cause?

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Forearm pain sometimes occurs without an obvious cause, such as an accident or sudden injury. Sudden pain in one or both forearms can bewilder anyone who suffers from it, but there are various conditions that can cause it, and most involve the muscles. Often you need to visit your doctor to officially diagnose the problem, but some causes include tendonitis, muscle strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and even a heart attack.

Tendinitis occurs when the tendons, which connect muscle to bone, become inflamed. The inflammation typically begins in a tendon in the elbow and then spreads to the forearm. Tendonitis is usually caused by overuse, aging and injury, although many sufferers of this condition get it as a result of playing sports such as tennis and golf. It is sometimes referred to as golfer’s or tennis elbow. To heal, the area needs to be rested for a few months in most cases, although surgery or steroid shots are also sometimes needed.

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 objects improperly. Fortunately, most treatments for muscle strain can be done at home, as ice, elevation, rest, and pain relievers are usually the best ways to treat this type of forearm pain. However, severe cases may require professional medical treatment, especially if the condition does not improve with several days of home treatment.

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

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

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