Differential Diagnosis for Pain on Top of Forearm with Typing
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Lateral epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): This condition is characterized by pain on the outer part of the elbow, which can radiate to the top of the forearm. It is often associated with repetitive strain injuries, such as those from typing, and is a common complaint among individuals who perform repetitive wrist and arm movements.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Medial epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow): Although the pain is typically on the inner aspect of the elbow, some patients may experience referred pain to the top of the forearm. This condition is also related to repetitive strain and overuse.
- Radial tunnel syndrome: This condition involves compression of the radial nerve and can cause pain on the back or top of the forearm. Activities that involve repetitive wrist extension, such as typing, can exacerbate the symptoms.
- Extensor tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons that extend the wrist and fingers can cause pain on the top of the forearm, especially with activities like typing that involve wrist extension.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Cubital tunnel syndrome: Although less common than other conditions, this involves compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow and can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the forearm and hand. Missing this diagnosis could lead to permanent nerve damage.
- Osteochondritis dissecans of the radial head: A condition where a piece of cartilage and bone in the elbow joint becomes damaged, which could lead to pain with activities like typing. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent further damage.
- Rare diagnoses
- Radial head fracture: Although rare in the context of typing, a fracture of the radial head could cause pain on the top of the forearm. This would typically be associated with a history of trauma.
- Infection or tumor of the forearm: These would be rare causes of pain on the top of the forearm with typing but are important to consider to ensure no serious condition is overlooked.