Pain in the pulmonary artery
Pain in the area of the pulmonary artery (A. radialis) often has nothing at all to do with the pulmonary artery, despite its localization. Sudden pulling, stabbing pain on the outside of the forearm usually indicates muscle pain. Muscle pain can often occur in the context of stress and lead to a temporary restriction of movement or strength.
On the outside of the forearm there are two extensor muscles (the long finger extensor and the hand extensor), a flexor (the elbow flexor) and the hand extensor muscle. Depending on which muscle is affected, the pain can manifest itself in very different movements. Pain when bending the hand or finger indicates that the tendons of the hand or finger extensor are overstretched.
This tension is usually caused by incorrect use of the computer and pressure on the wrist, but also when carrying heavy objects (for example, a waiter carrying a lot of full beer mugs). Carrying heavy loads can also cause discomfort when stretching the elbow joint. Carrying heavy objects on the forearms (e.g. books or full cartons) can cause tension in the supinator (reversible muscle).
Pain in finger flexion or when carrying heavy objects is caused by tension in the finger extensors. Such pain can also often radiate into the whole arm up to the shoulder. If the pain is acute, light massage of the affected region can relieve the pain.
Avoiding the painful movements can help temporarily, but immobilization can have a bad effect on the muscles in the long run. In general, one should avoid incorrect postures and movements and instead use the correct movement patterns that do not lead to tension. A doctor should be consulted if pain persists for a longer period of time. Physiotherapy can help to alleviate the symptoms.
