Pain and Swelling in the Shoulders, Arms and Hands

Pain and swelling in your shoulders, arms and hands could be a symptom of a variety of conditions, including arthritis, a traumatic injury or an illness. Your doctor will make a diagnosis based on your gender, age and a more in-depth examination of your symptoms. For example, swelling in your joints could be a type of arthritis, while swelling in your muscles could be from a strain or injury.

Pain in your shoulders, arms and hands could be a type of arthritis. (Image: Photodisc/Stockbyte/Getty Images)

Sternoclavicular Joint Dislocation

A traumatic fall or blow to your shoulder can cause sternoclavicular joint dislocation, a condition that causes pain, swelling and tingling in the shoulder, arm and hand. The sternoclavicular joint is in the shoulder and is partly responsible for mobility between the shoulder and trunk. In 2008, the "Canadian Journal of Surgery" published a report indicating that because sternoclavicular joint dislocation is uncommon, it often goes misdiagnosed. Depending on the exact location of the injury, complications include respiratory problems, vascular injuries, nerve damage, problems swallowing and even death.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a pathway in the wrist containing nerves that control hand movement and sensation. Repetitive stress to the nerve, which runs from the inner wrist to the forearm, can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Irritated tendons can also thicken or swell in the carpal tunnel and press on the median nerve. Symptoms include pain and swelling that radiates between the shoulder and hand as well as burning, tingling, itching and numbness. Symptoms can occur in one or both hands. Medical conditions such as an overactive pituitary gland, hypothyroidism and rheumatoid arthritis can also cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS, is a chronic pain disorder that typically affects the limbs. CRPS is characterized by intense burning or aching pain and swelling in the arm or hand, joint stiffness, muscle spasms and weakness. Other symptoms include skin discoloration, changes in temperature, sweating and sensitivity in the affected areas. CRPS often follows an injury or illness.

Treatment

If your symptoms are mild, you can treat pain and reduce swelling with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or aspirin. Applying a cold compress or ice can relieve swelling, and heat can ease tight muscles and spasms. If your pain and swelling is unmanageable or if it persists longer than a few days, call your doctor.