Pain in the right shoulder and forearm

Short answer
Pain in the right shoulder and forearm may involve a shoulder or elbow tendon, muscle overload, neck irritation, or a nerve problem.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Map the pain
- Note whether it follows reaching, gripping, neck movement, or rest
- Watch for
- Weakness, numbness, colour change, chest symptoms, or injury
Possible sources
The shoulder, upper arm, elbow, forearm, and neck can share movement and nerve pathways, so pain may be felt away from its source. Reaching overhead may stress shoulder tissues; gripping or wrist movement may aggravate elbow tendons. Tennis Elbow presents with pain on the outer elbow and forearm, while Golfer's Elbow presents with pain on the inner elbow and forearm. Neck-related irritation may add tingling, altered sensation, or weakness. The pattern during movement helps distinguish these possibilities.
What you can try
Temporarily reduce heavy lifting, repetitive reaching, forceful gripping, and movements that clearly reproduce the pain. Change position regularly and keep the shoulder, elbow, and wrist moving gently within comfort. Do not push through sharp pain or worsening tingling. A physiotherapist or doctor can check neck movement, shoulder strength, elbow tendons, sensation, and reflexes to guide treatment.
When to seek help
Seek emergency help for shoulder or arm pain with chest pressure, breathlessness, fainting, sweating, or sudden severe illness. Seek prompt care after significant trauma, obvious deformity, sudden loss of strength, a cold or pale hand, or rapidly spreading numbness. Arrange an appointment if symptoms persist, disturb sleep, or restrict work and daily movement.
Questions worth asking
Does the pattern point more toward the neck, shoulder, elbow, or forearm? Which activities should I modify? Would physiotherapy or a home exercise plan be suitable? What symptoms would require urgent reassessment?
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Can neck irritation cause forearm pain?
Yes. Irritated neck nerves can refer pain into the shoulder and forearm and may cause tingling or weakness.
When is arm pain an emergency?
Emergency help is needed with chest pressure, breathlessness, fainting, or sudden severe weakness.
Related
Related reading
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.