Shoulder and arm pain needs assessment based on your symptoms, injury history and examination. The location of pain alone does not show whether its source is a joint, muscle, nerve or another condition.
Call 911 for persistent chest discomfort, pain spreading to an arm or jaw, or chest pain with sweating, nausea, lightheadedness or shortness of breath. Do not wait for a chiropractic appointment. See chest-pain warning signs.
Tell your clinician about falls, injuries, repetitive activities and any swelling, weakness or numbness. These details help guide assessment; they do not identify the cause on their own.
Shoulder symptoms can involve more than one area. Describe any neck symptoms and previous treatment so the assessment considers your full history. A consultation should explain the findings and whether another healthcare professional needs to be involved.
Arrange prompt medical assessment after an injury if pain is severe, the arm looks deformed, or you cannot use it normally. Persistent symptoms also need evaluation. Chest discomfort with arm pain requires urgent attention as described above.
Elbow pain has several possible causes. The radius and ulna are forearm bones, not muscles. Tell your clinician which movements bring on pain and whether there is numbness, tingling, swelling or a recent injury.
Have an elbow injury assessed when pain follows a fall, impact or twist, particularly if movement is limited. Do not assume a child’s injury is minor or will heal quickly without evaluation.
Arm pain is not always a sign of serious disease, but persistent or worsening symptoms need assessment. Seek urgent care for severe pain with difficulty moving the arm, a changed shape after injury, or new tingling or numbness. See NHS elbow and arm guidance.
Tell your clinician about falls, injuries, repetitive activities and any swelling, weakness or numbness. These details help guide assessment; they do not identify the cause on their own.
Arm pain is not always a sign of serious disease, but persistent or worsening symptoms need assessment. Seek urgent care for severe pain with difficulty moving the arm, a changed shape after injury, or new tingling or numbness. See NHS elbow and arm guidance.
Tell your clinician about falls, injuries, repetitive activities and any swelling, weakness or numbness. These details help guide assessment; they do not identify the cause on their own.
Hand or wrist pain can affect work, hobbies and daily tasks. Describe the movements that hurt, when symptoms began and whether you notice weakness, swelling or altered sensation.
Wrist and hand symptoms can have different causes, so assessment comes before selecting treatment. Do not assume they are caused by spinal alignment or that an adjustment will reduce swelling.
Ask about the findings, treatment options and whether imaging or specialist evaluation is needed. Call 704-461-1836 for appointment questions.