Many conditions can cause right-sided arm pain. According to MayoClinic.com, arm pain, including right-sided arm pain, ranges from mild to severe, depending on the cause of the condition. Arm pain can be caused by many structures within the arm, or it can be caused by problems in the neck and wrist. In some cases, the underlying cause of arm pain may require medical intervention, while in other cases, conservative care methods--such as stretching and strengthening exercises--may help reduce the pain.
Biceps Tendinitis
Biceps tendinitis can cause right-sided arm pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, biceps tendinitis is inflammation of the long head of the biceps tendon. The long head of the biceps tendon is a thick, cord-like structure that links the upper portion of the biceps muscle with the bones composing the shoulder. Biceps tendinitis often occurs in conjunction with other shoulder problems, such as shoulder osteoarthritis, shoulder instability and shoulder impingement or the compression of structures--such as tendons--that run through the shoulder.
Common signs and symptoms associated with biceps tendinitis include pain and weakness in the front of the shoulder and the upper arm, tenderness in the affected area and an audible snapping sound in the shoulder. The AAOS states that the most common cause of biceps tendinitis is repetitive overhead activities. Athletes who participate in swimming, baseball and tennis are particularly susceptible to biceps tendinitis.
Tenosynovitis
Tenosynovitis can cause right-sided arm pain. MedlinePlus states that tenosynovitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sheath that surrounds a tendon. Each tendon possesses a protective covering or sheath that helps reduce friction between itself and other structures during movement. Sometimes this sheath can become irritated or inflamed. Although tenosynovitis usually occurs in the tendons of the hands, wrists and feet, the condition may occur in any tendon sheath. Possible causes of tenosynovitis include infection, injury to the tendon, overuse and strain.
Common signs and symptoms associated with tenosynovitis include reduced active range of motion in the affected body segment, joint pain and swelling and pain and tenderness in the involved area. In some cases, if infection is present, fever, swelling and redness may also be present. According to MedlinePlus, with proper treatment, most people with tenosynovitis make a full recovery.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Polymyalgia rheumatica can cause right-sided arm pain. According to MayoClinic.com, polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition in which a person experiences muscle pain and stiffness. Polymyalgia rheumatica-related pain most commonly occurs in the neck, shoulder, upper arms, hips and thighs. MayoClinic.com states that symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica usually manifest over several days. Polymyalgia rheumatica occurs more frequently in people older than age 65. Polymyalgia rheumatica is extremely rare in people younger than 50.
Common signs and symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica include tenderness in the upper arms, stiffness in the affected areas, reduced active range of motion of the involved body segment, fever, fatigue, malaise, anorexia or a loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss. According to MayoClinic.com, polymyalgia rheumatica may coexist with other inflammatory disorders.
