Overview

You can hurt your arm by using it too much or by injuring it. Biking, wrestling, and home repair projects are examples of activities that can lead to arm pain. Everyday wear and tear, especially as you get older, can cause arm pain. Your forearms, wrists, hands, and fingers are the parts of your arm that are most likely to become painful.

A minor arm injury usually will heal on its own with home treatment to relieve swelling and pain. If you have a more serious injury, you may need tests and treatment.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• Rest and protect your arm. Take a break from any activity that may cause pain.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your arm for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Prop up the sore arm on a pillow when you ice it or anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.
• If your doctor recommends a sling to support your arm, wear it as directed.