Upper Arm Pain Treatment in Houston & Pearland, TX

Common Causes of Upper Arm Pain

1. Biceps Tendonitis

This condition occurs when the tendon that connects your biceps muscle to your shoulder or elbow becomes inflamed, often due to overuse or repetitive lifting.

Symptoms:

• Pain or tenderness in the front of the shoulder or upper arm
• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
• Pain that worsens with overhead motion

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Treatment includes rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory care to ease discomfort and restore movement.

Surgical Options:

For persistent inflammation or tendon damage, arthroscopic tendon repair may be considered.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical recovery averages 4–6 weeks. Surgical recovery can take 3–6 months depending on severity and rehabilitation progress.

2. Upper Arm Fractures

An upper arm fracture occurs when the humerus bone breaks due to trauma or falls. Prompt evaluation ensures proper bone alignment and recovery.

Symptoms:

• Severe pain in the upper arm or shoulder
• Swelling, bruising, or visible deformity
• Limited motion or inability to lift the arm

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Diagnosis includes imaging such as X-rays to assess the fracture. Mild fractures are immobilized with a brace or cast.

Surgical Options:

Severe fractures may require fixation with plates, screws, or rods for stability.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical recovery typically takes 6–8 weeks. Surgical recovery ranges from 8–12 weeks or longer, followed by physical therapy at our Pearland orthopedic center.

3. Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

When the tendons of the rotator cuff become irritated or inflamed from repetitive use, it can cause both shoulder and upper arm pain.

Symptoms:

• Pain when lifting or reaching overhead
• Weakness or stiffness in the arm
• Discomfort at night or when lying on the affected side

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Treatment includes rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and improve strength.

Surgical Options:

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair may be needed for significant tendon damage.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical recovery averages 4–6 weeks. Surgical recovery may extend 3–6 months with structured rehabilitation.

4. Proximal Biceps Tendon Rupture

This occurs when the tendon connecting the biceps muscle to the shoulder tears, often after heavy lifting or sudden strain.

Symptoms:

• Sharp, sudden pain in the shoulder or upper arm
• A visible “Popeye” bulge in the arm
• Weakness with lifting or rotating the arm

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Minor tears can often heal with rest and therapy. Complete ruptures may require surgical reattachment of the tendon.

Surgical Options:

Biceps tendon repair is performed to restore strength and movement.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical care averages 4–6 weeks. Post-surgical recovery typically takes 3–6 months with guided physical therapy.

5. Upper Arm Muscle Strains

Overexertion or sudden movement can cause upper arm muscles to stretch or tear.

Symptoms:

• Pain, swelling, or tenderness in the upper arm
• Weakness or stiffness with movement
• Bruising in more severe cases

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Treatment often includes rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy to promote healing.

Surgical Options:

Rarely required, unless the tear is severe and does not heal with conservative care.

Recovery Timeline:

Most cases recover within 4–6 weeks; severe injuries may take longer depending on rehabilitation.