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Symptom

Weakness in the arm

Weakness has many causes, from a torn tendon to a nerve that is being compressed. Telling them apart is what a careful examination is for.

What it often feels like

  • Struggling to lift the arm to shoulder height or hold it there
  • Dropping things, or a weaker grip than the other side
  • Difficulty lifting a kettle, a shopping bag or a child
  • Weakness with or without pain

Common reasons it happens

  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Nerve compression at the neck, elbow or wrist
  • Long-standing pain causing the muscles to switch off
  • Brachial plexus problems following illness or injury

What to expect at your consultation

We start with your story: how the problem began, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your sleep, work and the things you enjoy.

I then examine your neck, shoulder and arm together, because they refer pain to one another. If a scan or nerve study would change what we do, I will arrange it; often it is not needed.

We finish by talking through the realistic options and deciding on a plan together.

Why we treat

Getting you back to the things this is stopping you doing

weakness in the arm matters because of what it takes away. Your sleep, your work, and the parts of the week you look forward to.

  • Someone using a cordless drill to build a wooden bench at home

    Jobs around the house

  • Two walkers and a dog on a path across the Yorkshire moors

    Walking the moors

  • A golfer following through on a drive while playing partners watch

    A full golf swing

Conditions this can point to

Book a consultation with Miss Aparna Viswanath

If this sounds like what you are experiencing, my secretary can arrange an appointment at Woodlands Hospital in Darlington.

Request an appointment