What causes soreness and pain in the arms?

Generally, the main causes of arm soreness include muscle overstrain, poor posture, lateral epicondylitis, cervical spondylosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and others. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific explanations are as follows:

1. Muscle Overstrain

Long-term heavy lifting or intense exercise can cause minor damage to arm muscle fibers and lactic acid buildup, leading to soreness. Reduce arm loading, elevate the arm during rest, and use massage or heat therapy to improve blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, and avoid excessive arm use in the short term.

2. Poor Posture

Prolonged head-down positions, working at a desk, or side-sleeping that compresses the arm can impair local blood flow and keep muscles chronically tense, resulting in soreness. Adjust sitting and standing postures; take a 5-minute break to move your arms every hour of work. Avoid prolonged pressure on one arm during sleep and choose a pillow with appropriate height.

3. Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

Repetitive forceful wrist movements cause tendon strain at the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, leading to aseptic inflammation and soreness on the outer side of the arm. Under medical guidance, topical medications such as diclofenac diethylamine gel or flurbiprofen gel patches may be used, along with oral celecoxib capsules. After pain relief, perform functional exercises for the wrist.

4. Cervical Spondylosis

Herniated cervical discs can compress nerve roots, causing abnormal nerve conduction and radiating soreness in the arm, often accompanied by numbness. Under medical supervision, medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B12 tablets, and Jinfukang granules may be taken. Cervical traction can be used as adjunct therapy, and in severe cases, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery may be required.

5. Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune disorder that attacks the synovial membranes of joints leads to joint inflammation, causing swelling, soreness, and limited mobility in the arm joints. Under medical guidance, medications such as methotrexate tablets, leflunomide tablets, and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be prescribed. Keep joints warm and avoid overusing affected joints.

In daily life, avoid prolonged and excessive arm use and maintain a balance between work and rest. Maintain proper posture to reduce pressure on the neck and arms. Keep joints warm to prevent cold and dampness. Regular health check-ups can help detect immune or joint abnormalities early.