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Symptom Checker

Arm Pain Without an Injury

Arm pain without an injury is discomfort in the shoulder, upper arm, elbow, forearm, wrist or hand when no clear accident caused it.

Muscle overuse, tendon irritation, joint inflammation, nerve problems and repetitive activity are common causes. Infection and other medical conditions can also cause arm pain.

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AAP Guide to Arm Pain Without an Injury

The AAP guide below explains common reasons for arm pain and which symptoms need medical evaluation.

AAP Symptom CheckerArm pain

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Symptom CheckerArm pain New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Pain persists or keeps returning.
  • The arm becomes swollen, red or warm.
  • Your child develops weakness, numbness or tingling.
  • Pain wakes your child at night or prevents normal use of the arm.
  • Fever or other illness symptoms occur with the pain.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child develops sudden arm weakness or loss of circulation.
  • Severe swelling occurs with serious illness.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on knocks, pain and injuries

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms