Left Armpit Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Pain on the inner side of the bone under the armpit (left side of the chest cavity)?

Sometimes, due to improper sleeping posture, I wake up in the morning with pain located about three centimeters under my left armpit.
The pain is situated between the inner side of the bone and the thoracic cavity.
I suspect it might be an old injury from when I was in high school, as I had a bruise in that area, but I cannot be certain.
The pain is particularly noticeable when I move my left arm in circles or when I laugh.
During more severe episodes, the pain can last all day, and I also experience pain in the area of the right side of my left thoracic cavity near the center of the bone.
This issue started a few years ago, occurring every few months, but recently the frequency has been increasing.
I am unsure of the cause and which specialist I should consult.

Yufa, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/12/12

Dr. Chen Xingyuan reply Orthopedics

Dear user,
Based on your description, it seems that the pain is more likely related to the muscles or tendons of the chest wall.
When the arm is moved in circles or exerted, the chest wall muscles or tendons can be stretched, leading to discomfort or pain, especially in areas that have been previously injured.
Consider whether there are any poor postures, excessive arm exertion, engagement in vigorous activities, or heavy lifting when the pain occurs.
If so, the cause may be inflammation of the chest wall muscles or tendons.
However, it is advisable to visit an orthopedic clinic for a detailed physical examination or X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.
Wishing you health and safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chen

Reply Date: 2003/12/12

More Info

Left armpit pain can be a perplexing symptom, especially when it occurs sporadically and is associated with specific movements or positions. Given your description, there are several potential causes for your discomfort, and understanding these can help you determine when to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes of Left Armpit Pain
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: The most common cause of pain in the armpit area is related to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments surrounding the shoulder and chest. Poor sleeping posture, as you mentioned, can lead to muscle strain or tension in the shoulder girdle, which may manifest as pain in the armpit. If you frequently sleep with your arm above your head, this could contribute to muscle fatigue or strain.

2. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome can occur when nerves or blood vessels are compressed in the space between your collarbone and your first rib. This can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm and shoulder area, including the armpit.

3. Old Injuries: Since you mentioned a previous injury to the area, it is possible that lingering effects from that trauma could be contributing to your current symptoms. Scar tissue or changes in the bone structure could lead to discomfort during certain movements.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the armpit can be referred from other areas, such as the heart or lungs. While this is less common, it is important to consider, especially if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or radiating pain down the arm.

5. Infections or Inflammation: Conditions like costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum) or infections in the lymph nodes can also cause localized pain in the armpit area.

When to Seek Help
Given that your pain has been increasing in frequency and severity, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are some signs that you should seek medical attention:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain lasts for an extended period or becomes more intense.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as swelling, redness, fever, or any signs of systemic illness.

- Impact on Daily Life: If the pain interferes with your daily activities or sleep.

- Changes in Sensation: If you notice numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand.

Which Specialist to See
For your symptoms, starting with a visit to a primary care physician is a good idea. They can perform a physical examination and may refer you to a specialist based on their findings. Possible specialists include:
- Orthopedic Surgeon: If musculoskeletal issues are suspected, an orthopedic surgeon can evaluate for any structural problems.

- Neurologist: If nerve compression or neurological issues are suspected, a neurologist can provide further evaluation.

- Physical Therapist: If the pain is determined to be related to muscle strain or poor posture, a physical therapist can help develop a rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles and improve posture.

Conclusion
In summary, left armpit pain can arise from various causes, primarily related to musculoskeletal issues, nerve compression, or referred pain from other areas. Given the increase in frequency and severity of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and help you manage your symptoms effectively.

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