If your baby is only 10 months old I think you should pick him up when he's screaming. He can't talk and obviously he needs you.

Maybe his teeth are coming in and he gets a sudden pain. Or maybe something else is hurting him. I think you should just pick him up. He's only a baby. Also, maybe take him to the doctor to check his ears and stuff. Maybe he has an infection.

The poor kid can't talk! Pick him up!

Sometimes we're worried that a babyish behavior will go on forever if we give in to it. This isn't always the case. Sometimes a small child goes through a bit of a phase and then quickly moves on. Since your baby is so young, I wouldn't worry about picking him up. He'll soon get too heavy and you won't be able to constantly hold him anyway. Since he's normally happy, this new behavior might indicate a health issue - a trip to the doctor might be a good idea. Even if he gets a clean bill of health, I'd suggest you continue to pick him up and see if the behavior disappears on its own in a couple of weeks. If it doesn't, you might try a homeopath. You could also try giving him the Bach Flower remedy called "heather" for neediness.  Sarah Chana

what about sitting down w/ him on the floor and playing a game? he may become distracted and consent to sitting next to you. or he can sit on your lap and you can slowly move him off.
I held my kids for the longest time (which is now playing a number on my back) but at times when I couldnt pick them up this was a nice alternative