There are a number of different conditions that contribute to arm and hand pain. They include, thoracic outlet syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, golfer's elbow, tennis elbow and trigger finger and they are frequently caused by tight muscles and fascial restrictions impinging nerves. What is the difference between them?

thoracic outlet syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome can cause pain, numbness and tingling in the shoulder, down the arm and in the fingers. Tight muscles in the neck and shoulder can contribute to pinched nerves in the brachial plexus and can result in those symptoms...even tingling and numbness in the fingers.

carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome can result in numbness and tingling in the forearm and hand. If the median nerve is impinged, you'll likely have numbness in your thumb, index finger, middle finger and half of your ring finger. If the ulnar nerve is impinged, you'll likely have numbness in your pinky finger and half of your ring finger.

Golfer's Elbow / Medial Epicondylitis

Golfer's elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is often caused by repetitive motion such as golfing, working as a dental hygenist, massage therapist or in an ice cream parlor scooping yummy treats! Sometimes this diagnosis is given to a tear in the common flexor tendon of the forearm; other times this diagnosis is given when the tendon is simply inflamed.

TENNIS ELBOW / LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is caused by repetitive motion such as playing tennis, working as a massage therapist or typing on the computer a lot. Sometimes this diagnosis is given to a tear in the common extensor tendon of the forearm; other times this diagnosis is given when the tendon is simply inflamed.

trigger finger

Trigger finger is frequently the result of a muscle cramp or fascial restriction in the forearm.