Seeking Guidance on Persistent Arm Nerve Issues
I am a 23-year-old male, weighing 155 pounds and standing 5 feet 7 inches tall, currently treating hypothyroidism with Tirosint. I do not smoke. For over eight years, I have experienced unusual nerve-related sensations, including tingling and shock-like discomfort that initially began in my right arm. This sensation would frequently occur during the eccentric phase of bicep exercises. As time passed, the discomfort has alternated to my left arm. While this problem is generally manageable during daily activities, it flares up during pull-ups and bicep workouts. There have been instances where I woke up with pain in my inner elbow, and I once visited an urgent care facility due to an inability to bend my right arm. Notably, when I perform bicep curls with my left arm, there is a clicking sensation past 90 degrees in the movement, which feels as if something is catching, though it isn’t quite painful—just somewhat uncomfortable. Throughout these eight years, I have consulted 3 to 4 different physical therapists and have undergone an X-ray and nerve conduction study on my left arm. Unfortunately, no one has presented a clear diagnosis. The explanations I have received have included tightness in my back, muscle imbalances, and limited shoulder stability, to name a few. Despite engaging in physical therapy, I have found no significant relief. Recently, about three months ago, I began learning basketball and practiced shooting around a hundred times a couple of times a week. After these initial practices, I noticed tingling in spots indicated in the attached illustration, particularly in my lats and inner elbow, with occasional nerve pinching sensations. Although the tingling in my lats subsided, the tingling affecting my forearm, biceps, and the third and pinky fingers persists. I've been attending physical therapy for the last two weeks, focusing on ulnar nerve slides, thoracic rotations, windmills, and plank body saws. While I understand recovery can be gradual, my frustration has been mounting. It feels like I am grappling with a chronic condition that remains unresolved, and I yearn for clarity on what is happening with my body. Continued visits to various healthcare providers and specialists in hopes of a definitive diagnosis are exhausting. For clarity, the blue area on the reference image is where I occasionally experience nerve pinching, while the red area denotes regions of tingling and heightened sensitivity to touch. I apologize for rambling, and I hope this isn’t an inappropriate venue for my concerns; I am at a point where I am seeking any advice that may assist me in navigating this issue. Thank you for your time in reading my account.
Answers (1)
9/13/2025, 8:50:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your detailed account; it sounds like you’re dealing with a frustrating and complex issue. Based on your description, it appears that you might be experiencing a combination of neurological and musculoskeletal symptoms affecting your arms. Here are the main points regarding your situation and actionable steps to consider:
Main Points:
- Possible Nerve Compression or Irritation: Your symptoms, particularly the tingling, nerve pinching, and clicking sensations, might suggest nerve entrapment or irritation, possibly at the elbow (e.g., ulnar nerve) or from issues higher up, like in the neck or thoracic region.
- Physical Therapy Focus: Continued work with physical therapists can help address underlying muscle imbalances and improve overall mobility.
- Self-Management Strategies: Incorporating specific self-care techniques may provide temporary relief or greater insight into your condition.
Explanation:
The nerve sensations you’re describing can result from multiple factors, including upper body posture, muscle tightness, and repetitive strain, especially given your involvement in physical activities like basketball and weightlifting. The clicking in your elbow could indicate some instability or lingering muscular issues, which may be worth monitoring. Since you've consulted several professionals without definitive answers, it's understandable to feel frustrated.
Next Steps:
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Activity Modification: Try to reduce the frequency or intensity of exercises that exacerbate your symptoms, such as pull-ups and bicep curls. Consider lighter resistance training or alternative exercises that don't provoke discomfort.
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Strengthening and Stretching: Continue to follow your physical therapist's recommendations but also integrate specific exercises targeting the shoulder, upper back, and neck. Focus on:
- Shoulder Retraction Exercises: Such as wall angels, to improve shoulder stability.
- Neck Stretches for Nerve Mobility: Gently stretching the neck can reduce tension on the nerves.
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Posture Awareness: Be mindful of your posture during daily activities and exercises. Proper alignment can reduce nerve compression. Utilize ergonomic adjustments, especially during workouts or while sitting.
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Ice and Compression: If you feel active inflammation or discomfort, using ice packs on affected areas can help alleviate acute symptoms, followed by gentle compression.
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Symptom Tracking: Keep a daily log of which activities trigger your symptoms and any patterns that arise. This can provide further insight during discussions with your physical therapist and aide in developing a tailored treatment plan.
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Consider Secondary Opinions: If symptoms persist or worsen, especially new changes, seeking a second opinion from a different specialist, such as an orthopedist or neurologist who has experience with musculoskeletal and nerve issues, may yield fresh insights.
Remember, self-care is essential along this journey. It's understandable to seek clarity, especially after prolonged difficulty; your commitment is crucial to finding the right balance for your body. Continue working closely with your healthcare team; they can provide the support you need as you navigate this complex issue. I'm here if you have further questions or need specific resources!
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