Arm Health | Orthopedic Surgeon in Mumbai

Bafna's Orthopaedics 21 June, 2024

Introduction to the Arm

The arm is crucial for a wide range of daily activities. It enables movements such as lifting, pushing, and reaching, which are essential for both personal and professional tasks. When the arm is affected by conditions like tendonitis, fractures, or muscle tears, it can severely impact one’s quality of life, causing pain, discomfort, and restricted movement. In this blog, we’ll explore the anatomy of the arm, common problems, treatment options, and ways to keep your arm healthy.

Anatomy and Function of the Arm

Humerus: The arm consists of a large bone called the humerus, which connects the shoulder to the elbow.
Biceps: The biceps allow for the flexion (bending) of the arm.
Triceps: The triceps are responsible for the extension (straightening) of the arm.
Other Components: Several tendons, ligaments, and nerves work together to provide stability, mobility, and sensation in the arm.

Bafna's Orthopaedics 23 June, 2024

Common Problems of the Arm

1. Biceps Tendonitis

This condition involves the inflammation of the tendons that attach the biceps muscle to the bones of the shoulder and elbow. Biceps tendonitis is often caused by repetitive lifting or overhead activities.

Symptoms: Pain in the front of the shoulder or elbow, weakness in the arm, and discomfort during movement.
Treatment: Rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and in severe cases, surgical repair.

2. Triceps Tendonitis

This condition occurs when the tendon that connects the triceps muscle to the elbow becomes inflamed, typically due to repetitive pushing or forceful extension movements.

Symptoms: Pain at the back of the arm, swelling, and difficulty extending the arm.
Treatment: Rest, ice, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery to repair the damaged tendon.

3. Humerus Fracture

A fracture of the humerus bone is usually caused by trauma, such as a fall or an accident. This injury can be severe and often requires medical intervention.

Symptoms: Intense pain, swelling, inability to move the arm, and visible deformity in severe cases.
Treatment: Immobilization with a cast or brace, pain management, physical therapy, and possibly surgery to realign the bone.

4. Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder, plays a significant role in arm movement. When injured, it can cause pain radiating down to the arm.

Symptoms: Pain when lifting or lowering the arm, weakness, and limited range of motion.
Treatment: Physical therapy, rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and surgery in severe cases. Read More

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Treatment Options for Arm Conditions

Non-Surgical Treatments

Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and mobility training can help restore function and reduce pain.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce swelling.
Corticosteroid Injections: These are sometimes used to reduce inflammation in conditions like tendonitis.
Bracing/Immobilization: For fractures, braces or slings are used to keep the arm stable during healing.

Surgical Treatments

Tendon Repair Surgery: In severe cases of biceps or triceps tendon tears, surgery may be needed to repair the tendon.
Fracture Surgery: For complex fractures of the humerus, surgery is often necessary to realign the bone with the help of plates, screws, or rods.
Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery: This surgery is recommended for severe tears in the rotator cuff that affect the arm’s mobility.

Dr. Darshan Bafna, a leading orthopaedic surgeon in Borivali, specialises in these surgical and non-surgical treatments, ensuring that patients receive the most effective care tailored to their condition.

Preventive Care for Arm Health

Stretching: Regular stretching can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Example: Stand straight, extend one arm across your chest, and press gently with the opposite hand to stretch the shoulder and arm.
Strength Training: Strengthening the muscles around the arm helps support the joints and tendons, reducing the risk of injury.
Example: Bicep curls and tricep extensions are excellent exercises for building arm strength.
Rest and Recovery: Avoid overuse of the upper arm, especially during high-intensity activities. Rest between workouts is crucial for preventing overuse injuries like tendonitis.

Interactive Symptom Checker

Do you experience arm pain or discomfort? Use this symptom checker to assess your condition:

Do you feel pain or stiffness when lifting or reaching?
Is your arm weak or does it feel unstable during activity?
Do you have swelling or tenderness in the arm?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you may need to consult an orthopaedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis.

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Bafna's Orthopaedics 27 June, 2024

FAQs About Arm Health

Q: Can arm pain heal without surgery?

A: Yes, many cases of arm pain can be managed with physical therapy, medication, and rest. Surgery is only necessary in severe cases.

Q: What should I do if I suspect a fracture in my upper arm?

A: Seek immediate medical attention. Immobilise the arm and consult a doctor for proper assessment and treatment.

Q: How can I prevent arm injuries?

A: Regular exercise, stretching, and proper recovery after physical activity are key to preventing arm injuries.

Leading Orthopedic Specialist in Mumbai - Dr. Darshan Bafna