Inability to Move My Arm
Standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall, I am a 16-year-old female weighing 197 pounds. On Thursday, I hit the gym for a rigorous 40-minute arm workout. While I anticipated some soreness in my arms the following day, I was caught off guard by the intensity of my discomfort. Today, I woke up to find that my left arm is nearly immobile. The pain radiates sharply from my inner elbow, stretching about halfway up my bicep. Attempting to move my arm brings me to tears due to the searing pain. Unfortunately, the situation has only deteriorated as the hours pass. I plan to visit urgent care shortly. What might be causing this?
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 6:10:25 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing significant pain and reduced mobility in your left arm after an intense workout. This could be due to several factors, such as muscle strain, tendonitis, or even a possible injury like a muscle tear. It's crucial to listen to your body, especially when extreme discomfort arises.
Explanation: After a demanding workout, especially if it's more intense than you're accustomed to, it’s common to experience muscle soreness, known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). However, if the pain is sharp and leads to an inability to move your arm, it could indicate something more serious like a muscle strain or ligament injury.
Your description of pain radiating from your inner elbow and high sensitivity to movement raises concerns. Keep in mind that injuries can sometimes take time to manifest fully following physical activity.
Next Steps:
- Rest Your Arm: Avoid using your left arm to minimize strain and allow it to heal.
- Ice Application: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every hour. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If appropriate based on any current medications or health conditions, consider taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your pain levels and any changes in mobility, especially as you prepare to visit urgent care.
Given your acute symptoms, it’s wise to get medical attention sooner rather than later. Be sure to provide the healthcare provider with all details about your workout and the nature of your pain. If you notice any swelling, bruising, or feel a pop or tear sensation during movement, mention these as they can provide context for the evaluation. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
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