There are a number of causes for pain in the arms and hands. When pain is associated with neck and shoulder blade stiffness, and there is a pins and needles sensation in part of the arm, the pain may be "referred" from the neck or midback. Specific pain in the shoulder, elbow, or joints of the hand may be due to arthritis, especially if accompanied by swelling and reddened skin.

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is characterized by pain and restriction in the shoulder. Pain is worse when lifting the arm sideways, putting on or removing clothing, and lying on the affected arm.

Treatment

Treatment should be given early, before stiffness develops. Light gentle exercise, within the limits of pain, will improve general long-term mobility.

Herbal Medicine Castor-oil packs are very useful.

Tens

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation will encourage the body's own natural pain­killers.

Hydrotherapy

Hot and cold compresses should be alternated.

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Acupuncture Treatment will address the same points as for acupressure and is performed on the shoulder itself. It can help relieve pain and promote mobility of the shoulder joint.

Acupressure This can relieve symptoms.

Aromatherapy Essential oils of rosemary and pine may be used in the bath, in a vaporizer, or for a light massage of the affected area.

Chiropractic Individual joint adjustment will be necessary.

Homeopathy Treatment will be constitutional, but specific remedies may include Rhus tox. 6c and Bryonia 6c.

Massage Ruta grav, cream, rolfing and shiatsu will all encourage healing, relieve pain, and aid mobility.

Osteopathy Useful in early and chronic ,stages for reducing inflammation, and maintaining shoulder joint ­mobility, and trunk and spinal mechanics.

Tennis Elbow

Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, accompanied by restricted movement.

Treatment

Acupressure This will encourage healing annl relieve symptoms.

Hydrotherapy Alternate hot and cold compresses

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Acupuncture Treatment will be aimed at the same points as acupressure.

Homeopathy Constitutional treatment is essential specific remedies include Arnica 6c, Rhus tox. 6c and Ruta gray. 6c.

Osteopathy Treatment will include soft tissue reintegration, as well as correction of the mechanics locally, and of the arm in relation to the shoulder and trunk.

Myotherapy Massage of trigger points will generally be undertaken.