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Upper arm

The upper arm is the upper part of the arm between the shoulder and elbow and contains important muscles and nerves that control the movement and strength of the arm.

Contents

Quick version

What is the upper arm?

The upper arm is the part of the arm that extends from the shoulder joint to the elbow joint. It consists of a long bone – the humerus – which is surrounded by powerful muscles such as the biceps and triceps. The upper arm acts as an important lever for all movements of the arm and is central to all forms of lifting, pulling and pushing.

Anatomy of the upper arm

The bone in the upper arm is called the humerus and extends from shoulder to elbow. Several muscles surround the bone, including the biceps brachii (front) and triceps brachii (back). Important nerves such as the radial, median, and ulnar nerves pass through the upper arm and can be affected if injured.

Muscles of the upper arm

The biceps is responsible for elbow flexion and supination (turning the palm of the hand upward), while the triceps is responsible for elbow extension. These muscles are active in many everyday and sports-related movements.

Function and biomechanics

The upper arm allows for flexion, extension, and rotation of the forearm. It also acts as a force transmitter from the shoulder to the hand, and its muscles play a crucial role in arm strength and control.

Common conditions and diseases

Pain in the upper arm can be due to muscle strains, tendonitis, nerve compression, or fractures. Overuse injuries from repetitive work or sports are common, especially with unilateral movements.

Examination and diagnosis

When investigating upper arm problems, a clinical examination of mobility, muscle strength and nerve function is performed. Imaging tests such as X-ray, ultrasound or MRI of the upper arm are used when a fracture or soft tissue injury is suspected.

Relevant symptoms

  • Pain in the front or back of the upper arm
  • Weakness when lifting or pressing
  • Tingling or numbness in the arm
  • Bruises or swelling after injury
  • Limited mobility in the shoulder or elbow

Related conditions and diagnoses

  • Biceps rupture
  • Triceps rupture
  • Umbral fracture
  • Muscle rupture
  • Radial nerve damage

Questions and answers

The upper arm runs between the shoulder and elbow, it contains the upper arm bone (humerus) and muscles such as the biceps and triceps.

Pain in the upper arm can be caused by muscle strain, tendonitis, nerve damage, or fracture. Common causes include overuse and heavy strain.

The most important muscles in the upper arm are the biceps brachii on the front and the triceps brachii on the back. These control elbow movements.

Rest, ice, physiotherapy and painkillers are common interventions. The type of treatment depends on the injury. In the case of fractures or ruptures, surgery may be required.

It is okay to exercise if the pain is mild, but in case of severe or persistent pain, exercise should be avoided until the cause is investigated.

This means that the biceps tendon ruptures, often under heavy load. This causes pain, weakness and sometimes a visible lump on the arm.

In case of severe pain, weakness, numbness or suspected fracture, a doctor should be contacted. Sudden pain during exertion often requires investigation.

The extent of the injury is assessed during a physical examination by a doctor. Ultrasound or MRI may be used to view the tendons and muscles.

The radial nerve controls some of the movements of the arm and hand. It can be damaged by fractures or pressure, causing weakness or numbness.

Yes, in older people with osteoporosis, fractures can occur from minor falls or stress. However, in younger people, more severe trauma is often required.