Arm Pain in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Your child can hurt an arm by using it too much or by injuring it. Biking and wrestling are examples of activities that can lead to arm pain. Everyday wear and tear, especially as your child gets older, can cause arm pain. Your child's forearms, wrists, hands, and fingers are the parts of the arm that are most likely to become painful.

A minor arm injury usually will heal on its own with home treatment to relieve swelling and pain. If your child has a more serious injury, your child may need tests and treatment.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Give pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• Make sure your child rests and protects the arm. Have your child take a break from any activity that may cause pain.
• Put ice or a cold pack on the arm for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin.
• Prop up the sore arm on a pillow when icing it or anytime your child sits or lies down during the next 3 days. Try to keep the arm above the level of your child's heart. This will help reduce swelling.
• If your doctor recommends a sling to support the arm, make sure your child wears it as directed.