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Published on: 5/21/2025

What could cause moving pain in the shoulder and arm?

Moving pain in the shoulder and arm can be caused by cervical radiculopathy or Parsonage-Turner syndrome, which affect the nerves in the neck and shoulder area.

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Explanation

Moving pain in the shoulder and arm can happen for a couple of reasons. One common cause is cervical radiculopathy, which occurs when nerves in the neck get pinched or irritated. This can lead to pain that moves down the arm, and sometimes, a special position called the shoulder abduction relief sign can help ease the pain.

Another possible cause is Parsonage-Turner syndrome. This is a condition where a bundle of nerves near the shoulder called the brachial plexus become inflamed, leading to sudden and severe pain. The pain can spread and move around the shoulder and arm. Over time, this can also cause weakness in the shoulder and arm muscles.

Both conditions involve nerve issues, but they affect the body in different ways. Understanding these causes can help in seeking appropriate medical care to manage the symptoms effectively.

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