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Published on: 3/5/2025

What Could Cause Pain under Both Armpits Without Any Lumps?

Pain under both armpits without any lumps can be caused by shoulder problems, nerve issues, or muscle strains.

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Explanation

There are several reasons why you might feel pain in both your armpits without any lumps:

  • Shoulder Injuries: Problems like rotator cuff tears or tendonitis in the shoulder can cause pain that spreads to the armpit area. When the shoulder muscles are injured, the pain can move to nearby places, including the armpit.
  • Nerve Issues: Nerves that run through the shoulder also pass through the armpit. If these nerves are pinched or irritated, it can cause pain in both areas. Conditions like a pinched nerve in the neck can lead to pain that travels down to the shoulder and armpit.
  • Muscle Strain: Straining muscles in the shoulder or upper back can create discomfort in the armpit as well. Overusing or injuring these muscles makes them sore and can lead to pain in connected regions.
  • Joint Problems: Issues with the shoulder joint, such as arthritis, can cause widespread pain that includes the armpit. Inflammation in the joint affects the surrounding tissues, leading to discomfort in multiple areas.
  • Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain from one part of the body is felt in another. Conditions affecting the heart or lungs can sometimes cause pain that appears in the shoulder and armpit, although this is less common.

If you are experiencing pain in both your armpit and shoulder, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider. They can check your symptoms, possibly do some tests, and help you find the best treatment to feel better.

(References)

  • Greenberg DL. Evaluation and treatment of shoulder pain. Med Clin North Am. 2014 May;98(3):487-504. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2014.01.016. Epub 2014 Mar 22. PMID: 24758957.

  • Lowry V, Lavigne P, Zidarov D, Matifat E, Cormier AA, Desmeules F. A Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Management of Various Shoulder Disorders. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2024 Feb;105(2):411-426. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2023.09.022. Epub 2023 Oct 11. PMID: 37832814.

  • Dean BJ, Gwilym SE, Carr AJ. Why does my shoulder hurt? A review of the neuroanatomical and biochemical basis of shoulder pain. Br J Sports Med. 2013 Nov;47(17):1095-104. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091492. Epub 2013 Feb 21. PMID: 23429268.

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