The hip and shoulder joints are among the most flexible and frequently used joints in the body. Unfortunately, these joints are also susceptible to injuries and discomfort, which are common concerns at our chiropractic clinic in Ames, IA. The causes of these issues can vary widely, from repetitive strain to sports injuries, resulting in symptoms that range from mild irritation to severe incapacity. In this article, Day Chiropractic provides insights into common causes of arm and leg pain and explains how chiropractic treatments can effectively address these conditions.
Pinpointing the exact cause of arm or leg pain can be difficult without professional assistance. Pain can originate from obvious sources such as overexertion at work, a sports-related shoulder dislocation, or nerve compression from sleeping in an uncomfortable position. However, pain that gradually worsens over time or persistent discomfort from a previous injury can be more complex to diagnose and may require a thorough evaluation.
Conditions such as bursitis, arthritis, and tendinitis can lead to such pain, but chronic arm and leg pain is often linked to misalignments (subluxations) in the cervical and lumbar spine. When nerve pathways exiting the spine are compressed due to misaligned vertebrae or discs, nerve irritation occurs, potentially causing pain along the entire nerve path. Many patients are surprised to learn that these nerves extend from the spine to the fingertips and toes.
As a result, spinal vertebral injuries can manifest as pain throughout the arms and legs. The pain patterns of sciatica, which radiate from the hip down to the foot, are a prime example of this phenomenon.
Given the complexity of joint structures and the numerous potential causes of arm or leg pain, a professional diagnosis is essential. A chiropractor can determine the root cause of your discomfort through a comprehensive approach that includes medical history analysis, physical examinations, and advanced imaging techniques.
Using non-invasive, precise chiropractic adjustments, practitioners aim to gently realign the vertebrae, providing both immediate and long-term relief. If you're experiencing arm or leg pain, don't wait until the discomfort becomes unbearable. Instead, consider scheduling a consultation with our experts at Day Chiropractic to explore effective treatment options.