Persistent Pain in Left Arm, Leg, and Neck: When to Seek Medical Help?

Pain and discomfort in the left arm, leg, and neck?

I have been feeling persistent soreness in my left limbs, even without exertion.
I later realized that I seem to be unconsciously tensing my muscles, and only notice it when I consciously relax them.
I'm not sure if this is related to being left-handed.
I play volleyball, and I'm uncertain if that has any impact.
About three years ago, I started experiencing soreness in my left shoulder and neck, which later extended to my entire left arm, and now my left leg is also affected.
It feels sore even when I'm not exerting myself, and I'm unsure if this could be due to poor posture.
I visited a rehabilitation clinic, and they mentioned that my issues could be due to lack of sleep and muscle inflammation.
However, since this has been going on for a long time and is affecting my sleep, it seems to create a vicious cycle.
Should I see a doctor or is rehabilitation sufficient? Thank you!

An An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/13

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology

Dear An-An, experiencing persistent soreness in your limbs without exertion is concerning.
Please seek evaluation from a neurologist or neurosurgeon as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2016/04/13

More Info

Persistent pain in the left arm, leg, and neck can be a complex issue that warrants careful evaluation. Given your symptoms of fatigue and discomfort in multiple areas, it is crucial to consider several potential underlying causes. The fact that you are experiencing this discomfort without any apparent exertion, combined with a history of shoulder and neck pain, suggests that there may be more than just muscle fatigue at play.

Firstly, it is essential to rule out any serious medical conditions. Symptoms such as persistent pain in one side of the body can sometimes indicate neurological issues, such as nerve compression or even more serious conditions like a stroke, especially if there are accompanying symptoms like weakness, numbness, or changes in coordination. Given your left-handedness and the fact that you are experiencing symptoms primarily on the left side, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. This may include imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to assess for any structural issues in the cervical spine or other areas.

Your history of playing volleyball could also be a contributing factor. Repetitive overhead activities can lead to shoulder impingement or rotator cuff injuries, which may radiate pain down the arm. Additionally, poor posture during sports or daily activities can lead to muscle imbalances and chronic pain. If you have been advised that your symptoms are due to muscle inflammation and poor sleep, it may be beneficial to explore physical therapy options that focus on posture correction, strengthening exercises, and flexibility training.

In terms of rehabilitation, it is essential to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your pain. Chronic pain can lead to anxiety and sleep disturbances, creating a vicious cycle that exacerbates your symptoms. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful in managing the psychological components of chronic pain. Furthermore, incorporating relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or yoga, may improve your overall well-being and help with sleep quality.

If you have already tried conservative measures like physical therapy and have not seen significant improvement, it may be time to consider further medical intervention. This could include consulting with a pain management specialist who can offer additional treatment options, such as injections or medications that target inflammation and pain.

In summary, while rehabilitation and physical therapy can be effective for managing your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice to rule out any serious underlying conditions. A multidisciplinary approach that includes physical therapy, psychological support, and possibly medical intervention may provide the best outcome for your persistent pain. Don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms in detail and explore the most appropriate treatment options for your situation.

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