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Last updated: October 10, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Arm Pain with Lifting and Gripping

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Tendinitis or Tenosynovitis: This condition is likely due to the repetitive strain on the tendons and synovial sheaths from lifting and gripping activities, leading to inflammation and pain.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm and hand, especially with activities that involve gripping.
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass through the thoracic outlet can cause pain and numbness in the arm, exacerbated by lifting.
  • Strain or Sprain: Overstretching or tearing of the muscles or ligaments in the arm can cause pain, especially with lifting and gripping.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Acute Coronary Syndrome or Myocardial Infarction: Although less common, arm pain can be a referred symptom of cardiac issues, and it is crucial to rule out these life-threatening conditions, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
  • Cervical Radiculopathy: Compression of the nerve roots in the cervical spine can cause arm pain, numbness, and weakness, and it is essential to consider this diagnosis to avoid missing a potentially serious condition.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Pancoast Tumor: A rare type of lung cancer that can cause arm pain due to compression of the nerves and blood vessels.
  • Osteoid Osteoma: A benign bone tumor that can cause nocturnal pain, which may be exacerbated by lifting and gripping.
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A chronic pain condition characterized by severe, burning pain, usually in one arm or leg, which can be triggered by injury or trauma.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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