Severe Pain in My Uninjured Arm While Lying Down
I'm a 30-year-old female. Previously, I shared this in r/brokenbones, but the subreddit isn't ideal for medical inquiries. Approximately a month ago, I fractured my right wrist. About a week back, I've started feeling excruciating pain in my left arm. It's a type of pain reminiscent of nerve discomfort, but it only occurs when I'm in a prone position. Sometimes, it's so severe that it disrupts my sleep. The discomfort radiates from my upper arm down through my forearm—particularly along my ulna, though it seems more muscular in nature. My wrist aches too, especially in the palm area where my knuckles bend, and I sometimes experience slight numbness in my fingertips. The pain intensity is quite high, yet it tends to subside once I sit or stand for some time. Over the past few weeks, I've been noticing signs of overexertion in my left arm, leading me to wear a wrist brace during the day for support. This new pain in my arm feels unusual and quite alarming. Unfortunately, I lack health insurance, making a doctor's visit prohibitively expensive, especially after incurring costs from my recent fracture. Is this a common issue? I understand that overworking the uninjured arm can happen, but I haven't come across anyone discussing pain of this nature. It could indicate nerve compression or perhaps tendinitis? However, I’m not a medical professional, so I can't diagnose it myself. In summary: I've been suffering from significant pain in my uninjured arm while lying down after using it extensively for around three weeks. The pain alleviates after I get up and move around, but it’s very worrisome, and I currently have no financial means to consult a doctor.
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 6:20:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling anxious about the severe pain in your uninjured arm, especially after experiencing a recent fracture. Based on your description, it appears that overuse and positioning may be contributing to your discomfort. Here's a breakdown of your situation and what you can do next.
Main Points
- Possible Causes: Pain while lying down could be related to overuse, nerve compression, or muscle strain, especially given your extended use of the uninjured arm.
- Alleviation Strategies: There are practical steps you can take to manage the pain and prevent further discomfort.
Explanation
The significant discomfort you feel when lying down may stem from several sources. Overextending muscles and tendons in your left arm can lead to muscle tension or strain, while your wrist brace may alter your usage patterns in ways that cause discomfort elsewhere. The radiating pain and numbness could suggest that nerves are being compressed or irritated.
Feeling discomfort alleviated by changing positions is a common sign that the pain may not be severe, but rather related to specific movements or rests. It's important to take this seriously but also recognize that many people experience similar issues after adjusting their activity levels, especially post-injury.
Next Steps
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Modify Positioning:
- Try to adjust your sleeping position. Placing a pillow under your arm can provide support and relief while lying down.
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Limit Activities:
- Reduce the use of your left arm whenever possible. Allowing it to rest can prevent further strain.
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Gentle Stretching and Strengthening:
- Engage in gentle stretching exercises for your arm and wrist when it's not painful to do so. Focus on mobility, not strength, and consider specific stretches for the wrist and forearm.
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Pain Management:
- If the pain persists or intensifies, consider over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to help manage discomfort, provided you have no contraindications for these medications.
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Keep a Log:
- Maintain a record of your pain levels throughout the day and identify any activities that worsen your pain. This will help you understand patterns and may provide insight for future care.
While it's frustrating to face such discomfort, especially with financial constraints, focusing on self-care can make a significant difference. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, consider reaching out to community health resources that could offer guidance or support. You're taking important steps, and your body's communication through pain is valid and worthy of acknowledgement.
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