The evaluation of arm pain starts with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in those with mild arm pain may include:

• Mild arm tenderness
• Mild arm swelling (unilateral)
• Mild arm bruising
• Mild arm pain with movement

Physical findings in those with severe arm pain may include:

• Deformity
• Inability to move the joint
• Skin redness
• Severe bruising
• Severe arm swelling (unilateral)
• Tenderness over a bone

The evaluation of arm pain may require testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate arm pain include:

• Complete blood count
• ESR
• Extremity x-rays
• MRI
• Nuclear bone scan
• Arthroscopy:
• May be used to evaluate the shoulder or elbow