Numbness in the arm from the shoulder can be caused by a variety of factors, some harmless and some serious. It’s important to figure out what’s causing it to get the right treatment.
Possible causes:
Sleeping in an awkward position.
Repetitive motions or overuse of the arm, such as typing for long periods or playing a musical instrument.
Pinched nerve in the neck or shoulder (cervical radiculopathy).
Thoracic outlet syndrome, where blood vessels and nerves are compressed in the space between the collarbone and first rib.
Conditions affecting the bones, joints, or muscles of the arm or shoulder.
If the numbness is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, weakness, tingling, or difficulty moving your arm, it’s crucial to see a doctor.
They can perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history, and order imaging tests if needed to determine the cause of the numbness and recommend appropriate treatment.
Numbness in the arm from the shoulder can be caused by a variety of factors, some harmless and some serious. It’s important to figure out what’s causing it to get the right treatment.
If the numbness is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, weakness, tingling, or difficulty moving your arm, it’s crucial to see a doctor.
They can perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history, and order imaging tests if needed to determine the cause of the numbness and recommend appropriate treatment.