Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Recurring Pain Below Armpit Which Is Relieved By Lidocaine Patches?
Question: I have recurring pain below the armpit that is relieved by applying lidocaine patches. Pain episodes occur sometimes daily and sometimes non for a few days. I have been cleared by Cardiologist (CT Scan, Nuclear treadmill test - negative), Internist (ultrasound - negative), Orthopaedist (MRI & full body bone scan - negative), neurologist did no testing but indicated all else other than nerve problem has been ruled out. He said that it is a problem that is common in the feet but it could be what I have. He said something about a nodule on the nerve. The pain has been frequent lately and is debilitating until I apply a lidocaine patch, then relief comes in five minutes or so. What do you think and what can I do about it? Sometimes the pain comes on at inopportune times and leaves me moaning and groaning until relief comes.
Brief Answer:
Brachial plexus nerulagia
Detailed Answer:
hi,
As you have undergone all the investigations that yielded no pathology, a brachial plexopathy of idiopathic origin is the likely condition it makes.
The area of armpit or is supplied by nerves from brachial plexus any small micro injuries or nerve damages leads to spontaneous discharge of impulses causing neuralgia of the area supplied by that root.
the pain is characteristic burning and aching type. commonly aggravated on exposure to extreme sensations like cold, etc. In certain cases an infection, injury are found, however it is known to occur without any cause, quite frequently.
An electromyographic investigations are done to confirm it.
I suggest your treating consultant to consider addition of gabapentin as it is found to releive neuropathic pain. The condition can be self remitting over period of time.
welcome for further queries
regards
Dr Pankaj Borade
Brachial plexus nerulagia
Detailed Answer:
hi,
As you have undergone all the investigations that yielded no pathology, a brachial plexopathy of idiopathic origin is the likely condition it makes.
The area of armpit or is supplied by nerves from brachial plexus any small micro injuries or nerve damages leads to spontaneous discharge of impulses causing neuralgia of the area supplied by that root.
the pain is characteristic burning and aching type. commonly aggravated on exposure to extreme sensations like cold, etc. In certain cases an infection, injury are found, however it is known to occur without any cause, quite frequently.
An electromyographic investigations are done to confirm it.
I suggest your treating consultant to consider addition of gabapentin as it is found to releive neuropathic pain. The condition can be self remitting over period of time.
welcome for further queries
regards
Dr Pankaj Borade
Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
