Pain is the primary way the body tells you that something is wrong. But did you know that an ache or pain may appear somewhere other than directly where the issue resides? Understanding what the body is saying is key to finding the right healthcare approach to help with the problem. Life Symmetry Chiropractic looks at all of the body’s symptoms to narrow down the possible locations.
Neck and Upper Back
Pain does not necessarily show itself right over the spot in the body that’s injured. Due to the interconnection of muscle and nerves, the pain someone feels may be indicative of an injury somewhere else. For example, headaches could be the result of upper neck strain or injury. This is one of the most common causes of headaches in a work setting. An accident that jars the neck or poor posture while doing desk work can cause the nerves in the cervical spine (upper neck) to become irritated. The result is interpreted as a headache. Treatment of the muscles and nerves in the neck make the headaches go away.
Back Pain
Thoracic and upper lumbar back pain can indicate stress on one or more of the cushioning discs between the vertebrae. A sudden twisting of the back can bring this on. Sitting for long periods with bad posture can weaken the back muscles leading to easier strains. Age and some illnesses can affect the ability of this cushion to act as a shock absorber for the back. Nerves surround the spine and any injury can trigger a pain response up and down the back. The pain can radiate away from the spine making diagnosis challenging. Pain in the shoulder and down the arm can indicate an issue in the spine.
Lower Back Pain
This is one of the most debilitating and variable types of pain. Large groups of nerves take off from the lower spine into the pelvis, hips and legs. Aching or sharp pains can occur due to lower back stress or injury. A sharp pain radiating down one leg can indicate a “slipped disc” in the lower back pushing against the nerves going down that leg. Now truly a disc cannot “slip” but it can bulge or herniate out and press against nerves. As a chiropractor in Colorado Springs, this is one of the most common conditions seen. It is often the result of a lifestyle that requires sitting for long periods. Back muscles are forced into non-ergonomic positions and become strained. This does not give the low back the support it needs and can lead to a disc injury.
Pay Attention to the Pain
While it may be tempting to “tough it out”, ignoring back and neck pain can result in more damage and longer recovery times. The next time you have a headache or sharp pain anywhere along your spine or down your legs, stop and pay attention. Find out where the pain is really coming from and get it treated before you end up incapacitated for days or weeks.
