Arm Pain

When To Call

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance) If

• Not moving or too weak to stand

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

• Your child looks or acts very sick
• Can't use arm normally
• Fever is present
• Can't move a joint normally
• Swollen joint
• Bright red area on skin
• Muscle weakness (loss of strength)
• Numbness (loss of sensation) present over 1 hour
• Severe pain or cries when arm touched or moved
• You think your child needs to be seen urgently

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If

• You think your child needs to be seen, but not urgently

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

• You have other questions or concerns
• Cause of arm pain is uncertain
• Arm pain present over 7 days
• Arm pains or muscle cramps are a recurrent chronic problem

Parent Care at Home If

• Caused by strained muscles from excessive use
• Cause is obvious and harmless (e.g.,sliver that's removed, a recent shot)

Care Advice

1. Reassurance: Strained muscles are very common following vigorous activity (overuse injury) (e.g., repeatedly throwing a ball). You can treat them at home.
2. Local Cold: Apply a cold pack or ice bag wrapped in a wet cloth to the sore muscles for 20 minutes several times on the first 2 days.
3. Pain Medicine: For pain relief, give acetaminophen OR ibuprofen as needed. (See Dosage table)
4. Hot Bath: If stiffness persists over 48 hours, have your child relax in a hot bath for 20 minutes 2 times per day, and gently exercise the involved part under water.
5. Expected Course: A strained muscle hurts for 2 or 3 days. The pain often peaks on day 2. Following severe overuse, the pain may last a week.
6. Call Your Doctor If:
• Fever or swollen joint occurs
• Pain caused by work or exercise persists over 7 days
• Pain becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

To find a pediatrician, click here.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. For more information, click here.

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