Arm Problem(s) Evaluation – Z-2-H Family Med & Urgent Care Clinic^®

We evaluate a wide range of arm issues, including pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, reduced range of motion, numbness, tingling, and weakness involving the shoulder, upper arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, or hand. This may include suspected sprains and strains, tendonitis, overuse injuries, mild to moderate trauma, and some chronic arm conditions.

You should seek prompt evaluation if your arm pain follows a fall or injury, if you notice visible deformity, severe swelling, inability to move or bear weight on the arm, sudden weakness, or new numbness and tingling. Worsening pain, symptoms that do not improve with rest, or arm problems that interfere with daily activities are also good reasons to schedule an Arm Problem(s) visit.

Yes. Sudden, severe arm pain — especially if it is associated with chest discomfort, shortness of breath, sweating, or jaw or neck pain — can be a sign of a heart-related emergency. If you suspect this, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Our Arm Problem(s) service does not replace emergency care in life-threatening situations.

Providers perform a detailed physical exam to look for signs that suggest a fracture or dislocation, such as deformity, severe tenderness over bone, inability to move the joint, or instability. When indicated, we may recommend X-rays or other imaging through our clinic or trusted partners, or refer you to an emergency or orthopedic facility if more urgent care is needed.

Not always. Some arm problems are related to muscle strain, tendonitis, overuse, or nerve irritation and can be treated without imaging. Your provider will decide whether an X-ray or other imaging study is appropriate based on your symptoms, exam findings, and risk factors. When imaging is recommended, we will explain why and help coordinate the next steps.

Yes. Children and adolescents can be evaluated for arm pain, injuries from sports or play, suspected sprains, minor fractures, and many other arm concerns. We use age-appropriate examination techniques and explain findings to both the child and caregiver. Some severe or high-risk injuries may still require emergency or specialty pediatric care.

For mobile visits, a licensed provider travels to your home or preferred location at a scheduled time. We bring the necessary equipment to assess your arm, review your medical history and medications, perform a focused physical exam, and provide treatment or recommendations. This approach can be especially helpful if it is difficult or painful for you to drive or use your arm.

In-clinic visits take place at our urgent care and family medicine facility. After check-in, a clinician will review your symptoms, examine your arm, and, when available and appropriate, arrange X-rays, splints, slings, or other treatments on-site. You will receive clear instructions for home care and follow-up, and we will discuss whether additional specialty care is recommended.

Some arm concerns, particularly mild or early symptoms, may be appropriate for an initial telehealth discussion where a provider reviews your history and visual appearance of the arm via video. However, many arm problems require an in-person exam and possibly imaging to safely evaluate strength, sensation, and joint stability. If a virtual visit is available, your provider will let you know whether in-person follow-up is needed.

Yes. We evaluate many arm problems related to work, sports, exercise, or daily activities. Depending on your situation, we may provide documentation for modified activity, bracing or splinting recommendations, pain management options, and guidance on when it is safe to return to regular duties or sports. Some complex injuries may require referral to orthopedics or physical therapy.

We accept many major insurance plans, and coverage for an Arm Problem(s) consultation is often similar to other urgent care or primary care visits. Your exact out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan, copay, deductible, and any applicable coinsurance. Our team can help verify coverage and provide general information about expected charges.

Your medical information is protected under HIPAA and applicable privacy laws. Whether your visit occurs at home or in the clinic, we use secure systems and follow strict confidentiality standards. Only authorized team members involved in your care have access to your health information, and we share records with other providers only when appropriate and permitted.

Home care depends on the underlying cause of your arm problem. Common strategies may include rest from aggravating activities, ice or heat at recommended intervals, elevation for swelling, over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications, and gentle stretching or strengthening exercises once your provider says it is safe. During your visit, we will give you specific instructions tailored to your diagnosis and recovery goals.

Your provider will recommend follow-up based on your diagnosis and response to treatment. Some patients need a short-term recheck to review imaging results, reassess pain and function, or adjust splints or medications. Others may be referred to physical therapy or a specialist for longer-term management. If your symptoms worsen or new problems develop, you should contact us or seek urgent care sooner than planned.