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First Aid & Emergencies

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First Aid & Emergencies

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Shoulder problems and a pale, white, blue, or cold hand or arm

A pale, white, blue, or cold hand or arm can mean blood vessels in the shoulder area have been pinched or injured. Blood vessels may be injured by a direct injury that pinches or damages blood vessels. Examples of direct injuries include gunshot wounds, stab wounds, dislocations, sprains, strains, burns, fractures, crushing injuries, a snakebite, medical procedures, or surgery.

A pale, white, blue, or cold hand or arm that occurs after a shoulder splint has been applied may mean the splint is too tight. The blood supply to the arm may be decreased or cut off. If the splint is too tight:

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Loosen the splint but don't remove it.
Elevate your arm above the level of your heart.
Call and discuss your symptoms with your doctor.

Prompt treatment is important to restore blood flow and prevent severe complications.

Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	John G. Kloss, MD - Orthopedic Surgery and Fractures, Hand and Microvascular Surgery
Last Updated	September 19, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 19, 2009

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.