WEAKNESS IN LEFT ARM

qvc chick · ‎03-10-2010

Hello, about a month ago I work up with some weakness in my left arm. I thought I maybe slept wrong (have two dogs on my bed) but I got scared when I read that it could be signs of heart attack.

So I went to the ER and they checked everything out, and my heart was fine. I don't have any other problems.

But a month later, still have weakness on left arm. Not sure if it is a pitched nerve, or carpel tunnel?

Anyone experienced sudden weakness? I am on the computer all day at work, and I have two large dogs that pull me when I walk.

But how long will this last? And is there any treatment? It came on all of a sudden, I hope its not here to stay.

Triciawizard · ‎03-11-2010

I am not a medical professional. Consider consulting your primary care physician very soon. If your arm weakness is persistent or causes you concern, seek prompt medical care.

candyagain · ‎04-11-2010

Yes, definitely see your GP but ask for a referral to an orthopedic doc. If it's carpal tunnel or a muscle problem they'll be able to diagnose and treat. It's a good place to start.

Sorry for your distress, hope all goes well.

Allegheny · ‎03-19-2010

For many years I have had weakness and pain in my left shoulder and arm. (tendonitis).

Best to bring it up to your PCP; if he/she feels they can't diagnosis it, they will send you to a specialist.

Best wishes and I hope you get a diagnosis soon.

BlueFinch · ‎08-31-2019

It certainly sounds like some type of nerve involvement. I would think the ER docs would have given you some possible causes for the arm weakness. They also have ER docs specializing in such, so why didn't they call one in to see you?

At the very least, they should have given you a follow-up appointment, or recommended who to contact for a nerve/bone assessment. You could even have a nerve in your cervical spine, not necessarily your arm, itself, causing the arm weakness. I've see this; it's not uncommon. It's going to take someone who's skilled in tracing the symptoms to the nerve.

If you haven't, please inform your primary care physician. Maybe he, or she can send you for the right consult. You don't want to wait on weakness like this, that may be nerve involvement. If addressed early, sometime the impinged nerves can be released, restoring strength. But the longer you allow it to linger, it could potentially worsen, or become permanent.

A month is a long time to have these symptoms. Have it assessed so you can remove some of your worry. I'd be very interested in your outcome. Good luck to you.

SeaMaiden · ‎03-10-2010

@qvc chick A few years ago I had weakness in both arms... I had spinal stenosis that showed from neck Xrays they took. Thankfully it has subsided, but, I dealt with it for about a year.

Foxxee · ‎10-03-2014

@qvc chick

"I am on the computer all day at work, and I have two large dogs that pull me when I walk."

While I think you definitely should have it checked by a doctor, think about how you are sitting and positioning your arms at work. Try to change positions and walk around every hour or so.

As for the dogs, is one of the dogs on a leash you are holding with your left hand? That could be putting strain on that arm and possibly your shoulder, as well.

Surely, you know, you should be walking your dogs, not the dogs walking you. Can you train them to heel beside you? It's much safer for you and their necks if they aren't wearing halters.

JYWilliams · ‎03-10-2010

Years ago I started having weakness in my right arm and hand. Had an MRI and it showed C-5 disk nerve compression in my neck. Go to a doctor just to be on the safe side.