Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 1/6/2009

Question
Several months ago I fell down a portion of our stairs. I suffered upper arm pain....painful to the touch...as I grabbed the railing to break my fall.  That pain has since gone away.  Recently, I have noticed that certain movements will cause a sharp pain that lasts about 10 seconds in this same area. Movements such as putting on a coat, reaching back, reaching way out to the side.  It does not hurt other than at those times.   The area is in my upper, outer, left arm approximately 3 - 4 inches below my shoulder

Answer
Hello Collen,

   You may have strained your deltoid musculature.  The deltoids over lap the shoulder inserting on the deltoid tubercle about 3-5 inches below the shoulder (depending on the person).  If you feel a lump or not at that specific area, chances are you may have some scar tissue from a muscle tear.  Specific soft tissue work on the scar tissue will help reduce the adhesion and pain.  You may want to find a Doctor of Chiropractic who specializes in Sports Injury/Soft tissue work as they will be able to diagnose and treat the condition.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.