Why Do My Arms Hurt When I Do Push-Ups?
Many people experience discomfort or pain in their arms while performing push-ups. This is a common issue but can be concerning if it persists. Understanding the reasons behind this discomfort is crucial for improving your push-up technique and preventing injury.
Muscle Fatigue
One of the primary reasons for arm discomfort during push-ups is muscle fatigue. The triceps, deltoids, and pectoral muscles are extensively engaged during push-ups, and if these muscles are not accustomed to the exercise, they can become fatigued quickly, leading to discomfort or pain.
Poor Technique
Improper push-up technique can put unnecessary strain on the arms and shoulders, leading to discomfort. Common mistakes such as flaring the elbows outward or allowing the shoulders to collapse can cause increased stress on the arms, resulting in pain or discomfort.
Overtraining
Pushing your body beyond its limits by doing too many push-ups or performing them too frequently can lead to overtraining. Overworked muscles are more prone to discomfort, soreness, and injury. It’s important to give your muscles time to rest and recover to prevent arm pain during push-ups.
Weak Muscles
If your arm and shoulder muscles are underdeveloped, they may struggle to support your body weight during push-ups, leading to discomfort or pain. Strengthening these muscles through targeted exercises can help alleviate arm pain during push-ups.
Shoulder Impingement
In some cases, individuals may experience arm discomfort during push-ups due to shoulder impingement. This occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa in the shoulder become irritated or inflamed, causing pain and limiting movement. It’s important to seek medical advice if you suspect shoulder impingement as the cause of your discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Should push-ups hurt my arms?
While push-ups can be challenging, they should not cause intense or prolonged arm pain. Discomfort during push-ups may indicate underlying issues such as muscle fatigue, poor technique, overtraining, or weak muscles that need to be addressed.
Q: How can I alleviate arm discomfort during push-ups?
Improving your push-up technique, allowing for adequate rest between workouts, gradually increasing the intensity of your push-up routine, and incorporating strength training exercises for the arms and shoulders can help alleviate arm discomfort during push-ups.
Q: When should I seek medical advice for arm pain during push-ups?
If you experience persistent or severe arm pain during push-ups, or if the pain is accompanied by swelling, numbness, or tingling, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
