Author: Mr Oliver Eaton BSc (Hons), PG.Cert – Orthopaedic Specialist
Reviewed by: Mr William Sharples BSc (Hons) – Pain Management Expert
Last Updated: September 2025
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about arthritis in the wrist and the most effective ways to treat it, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.
What Causes Itching in the Arm?
- Dry skin (xerosis): Common in cold weather, with aging, or after hot showers.
- Allergic reactions: Soaps, detergents, or fabrics can trigger itching. Severe allergic reaction may be associated with systemic symptoms.
- Atopic dermatitis: A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
- Contact dermatitis: A reaction to irritants or allergens, such as jewelry or plants, causing red, itchy rashes.
- Skin conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, and urticaria [1].
- Common skin conditions: Frequently cause arm itching and include eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis.
- Nerve-related causes: Brachioradial pruritus (nerve irritation in the neck or spine) can cause localized arm itching [2].
- Multiple sclerosis: A neurological condition that can cause arm itching due to nerve involvement.
- Sun exposure: Prolonged UV radiation can trigger nerve-related itching, especially in those with outdoor lifestyles.
- Insect bites: Mosquitoes, fleas, or bed bugs can cause localized itching.
- Systemic diseases: Diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and thyroid disorders can present with arm itching.
- Medications: Some drugs, including statins and opioids, may cause itching as a side effect.
- Hormonal changes: Menopause or pregnancy can increase skin sensitivity.
- Psychological factors: Stress and anxiety can heighten itch perception.
Risk factors such as age, personal habits, and environmental exposures can increase the likelihood of experiencing arm itchiness. Middle age is a common period for certain conditions like brachioradial pruritus to develop. Itchy arms and itchy forearms are common symptoms that may indicate underlying conditions. Weight loss alongside itching may suggest a more serious underlying health issue.
Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.
Symptoms of Itching in the Arm
- Localized or widespread itching
- Redness, bumps, or rash
- Dry, flaky, or thickened skin
- Scratching that leads to broken skin or sores
- Disturbed sleep or difficulty concentrating
Pruritus symptoms often include a persistent itchy sensation, sometimes accompanied by pain or burning, and may occur even in the absence of a visible rash. Many people experience itchy skin due to various triggers such as allergens, sun exposure, or underlying conditions. An itchy sensation can lead to scratching, which may further irritate the skin and worsen discomfort. This can result in an itch scratch cycle, where scratching intensifies the itch and can cause skin changes over time.
How Is Arm Itching Diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Your clinician may ask about your symptoms, triggers, and any underlying health conditions. To diagnose brachioradial pruritus, clinicians typically discuss your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and may use imaging tests such as X-rays to identify any spinal issues related to the condition. Additional tests may include:
- Blood tests to check for diabetes, thyroid, liver, or kidney issues
- Skin scrapings or biopsies for suspected skin conditions
- Allergy testing
- Neurological assessment if nerve-related causes are suspected
Depending on the suspected cause, your provider may order further tests or refer you to a specialist.
Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment [3].
Brachioradial Pruritus and Nerve-Related Causes
Brachioradial pruritus is a unique skin condition that causes intense itchiness, most commonly on the outer side of the forearm and sometimes extending up to the upper arm. Unlike typical itchy skin caused by dryness or allergic reactions, brachioradial pruritus is closely linked to nerve irritation or damage, particularly in the cervical spine (the neck region). When nerves in this area become compressed or inflamed, they can send abnormal signals to the skin, resulting in persistent itching, burning sensations, tingling, or even a stinging feeling.
The brachioradialis muscle, which runs along the upper arm and forearm, is often the affected area, making the itch highly localized but sometimes severe enough to disrupt daily life. Other symptoms may include sensitivity to touch or changes in skin sensation, and the urge to scratch can be overwhelming. These abnormal sensations are a direct result of irritated nerve fibers and endings, rather than a problem with the skin itself.
Recognizing the connection between brachioradial pruritus and nerve-related causes is essential for effective treatment. Addressing the underlying nerve irritation—whether through targeted therapies, medications, or interventions like prolotherapy—can provide lasting relief from symptoms. If you experience intense itchiness in your upper arm or forearm, especially with burning or tingling, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.
Treatments for Itching in the Arm
The best treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and your individual needs. Options include:
- Moisturisers: Apply fragrance-free creams or ointments to prevent dryness as part of home remedies and self care.
- Topical steroids: Reduce inflammation in eczema, psoriasis, or allergic reactions.
- Topical steroid cream: For persistent or severe itching, topical steroid cream may be prescribed to manage underlying conditions.
- Capsaicin cream: This topical treatment works by blocking nerve endings responsible for transmitting the sensation of itching, providing relief for itchy arms.
- Antihistamines: Oral or topical antihistamines can relieve allergic itching.
- Oral medications: Oral medication such as antihistamines, SSRIs, and tricyclic antidepressants (like doxepin) may be used for persistent or severe itching. These oral medications can relieve itchiness and provide relief when at-home remedies are not enough.
- Phototherapy: UV light therapy for chronic skin conditions.
- Neuropathic medications: Gabapentin or pregabalin for nerve-related itching, especially when nerve damage is a contributing factor.
- Ice packs: Applying ice packs can provide relief and help symptoms go away, especially for nerve-related itching.
- Lukewarm baths: Taking lukewarm baths is a gentle self-care measure to soothe itchy skin and reduce irritation.
- Addressing underlying conditions: Managing diabetes, thyroid, or liver disease can reduce symptoms.
- Behavioural strategies: Stress management, mindfulness, and keeping nails short to prevent skin damage.
Some treatments, such as capsaicin cream, specifically target nerve endings to reduce the sensation of itching. Addressing nerve damage is important in cases of nerve-related itching, such as brachioradial pruritus. Home remedies and self care practices, including moisturization and gentle cleansing, can also help symptoms go away and prevent worsening.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat itching in the arm.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with itching in the arm.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of itching in the arm, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prolotherapy may not be suitable for everyone, and outcomes can vary. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read here.
Case Study: Lasting Relief from Arm Itching
Patient: Michael, 54, teacher
Condition: Brachioradial pruritus (nerve-related itching), unresponsive to creams and antihistamines
Treatment: 2 sessions of prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic
Outcome: Michael reported a 75% reduction in itching and improved sleep within 4 weeks. He remains symptom-free at his 6-month follow-up.
Are Treatments for Arm Itching Safe?
Most non-surgical treatments, including prolotherapy, are considered safe when performed by experienced clinicians. Side effects are rare but may include temporary redness, swelling, or mild discomfort. Always consult a qualified practitioner to discuss risks and benefits [4].
How to Choose the Right Treatment for Itching in the Arm
The best approach depends on your symptoms, underlying health, and treatment goals. A thorough assessment by a specialist is essential. At ProHealth Clinic, we create personalised treatment plans, often combining therapies for optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes itching in the arm without a rash?
Itching without a visible rash can be due to dry skin, nerve irritation (such as brachioradial pruritus), or underlying medical conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders.
How can I stop my arm from itching at night?
Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser before bed, avoid hot showers, and keep your bedroom cool. Taking lukewarm baths before bedtime can gently reduce nighttime itching. Applying ice packs to the affected area may also help soothe itching and improve sleep. Practicing self care, such as regular moisturizing and gentle cleansing, can help prevent nighttime itching. If itching persists, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Is itching in the arm a sign of something serious?
While most causes are benign, persistent or severe itching—especially with other symptoms such as unexplained weight loss—may indicate an underlying condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Is prolotherapy safe for itching in the arm?
Yes, prolotherapy is considered safe when performed by trained professionals. Side effects are rare and usually mild.
When should I see a doctor for arm itching?
See a doctor if itching is severe, persistent, or associated with rash, swelling, or other symptoms. If itching lasts more than six weeks, seek medical evaluation, as this duration may indicate a chronic condition. Medical evaluation is important to rule out underlying conditions.
Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
Don’t let itching in the arm control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.
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Phone: +441234380345
Email: info@prohealthclinic.co.uk
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Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Oliver Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating itching in the arm, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with itching in the arm and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Mr Eaton’s expertise has been featured in many national news and media publications, including The Telegraph, The Daily Mail, The Daily Express, Women’s Health Magazine, and The Scotsman.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
Linkedin profile
References
- Ständer S, et al. Clinical classification of itch: a position paper of the International Forum for the Study of Itch. Acta Derm Venereol. 2007;87(4):291-294. Link
- Goodman RM, et al. Brachioradial pruritus: a common cause of chronic, localized itching. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019;80(2):543-548. Link
- Weisshaar E, et al. Epidemiology of chronic pruritus: where do we stand? Front Med. 2021;8:644119. Link
- Rabago D, et al. Prolotherapy in primary care practice. Prim Care. 2010;37(1):65-80. Link
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.