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Arm Injuries and Disorders
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Injuries Wounds

Arm Injuries and Disorders

The arm is a complex structure of bones, muscles, and connective tissues that can be damaged through sports, falls, or accidents.

Overview

Of the 206 bones in your body, three of them are in your arm: the humerus, radius, and ulna. Your arms are also made up of muscles, joints, tendons, and other connective tissue. Injuries to any of these parts of the arm can occur during sports, a fall, or an accident.

Types of Arm Injuries

Types of arm injuries include:

  • Tendinitis and bursitis
  • Sprains
  • Dislocations
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Nerve problems
  • Osteoarthritis

Specific Areas of Concern

You may also have problems or injure specific parts of your arm, such as your hand, wrist, elbow, or shoulder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rest the elbow and avoid activities that provoke pain. Apply ice for 15‑20 minutes several times daily, keep the joint elevated when possible, and use an over‑the‑counter NSAID to control inflammation. A compressive elbow sleeve can provide gentle support, but avoid tight bandages that restrict blood flow.
Look for severe pain that worsens with any arm movement, obvious swelling or bruising, a visible deformity or shortening of the arm, inability to rotate the shoulder, and numbness or tingling down the arm. If any of these appear, get an X‑ray urgently.
Persistent or worsening tingling, especially if accompanied by weakness (e.g., dropping objects) or a “pins‑and‑needles” sensation that doesn’t resolve within a few days, suggests possible nerve compression or injury (such as median or ulnar nerve involvement). Seek a neurologic or orthopedic evaluation promptly to prevent permanent damage.
Begin with pendulum swings and gentle scapular retractions performed in a pain‑free range. Progress to isometric shoulder external rotation (pressing the back of the hand against a wall without moving the arm) and wall “angel” slides. Avoid overhead lifting, heavy resistance, and repetitive internal rotation until pain subsides. Physical therapy guidance is recommended for a tailored program.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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