ARM-LEG PAIN

Pain that radiates into or along the arm or thigh or leg is usually nerve pain. Nerve pain can have a variety of origins including trauma, disease, acute stress (such as referred pain during a heart attack) or physical irritation to the nerve itself. It is important to differentiate between life threatening conditions and nerve pressure or irritation.

In most cases, a person can isolate the onset of the pain and can usually associate it with an activity or event, such as a fall or a "crick" in the neck, slept wrong and got up with a sore neck or back. If you are having trouble breathing, chest pain or nausea in addition to arm, face or jaw pain, see your medical doctor immediately. Once more serious conditions are ruled out, you will have plenty of time to come back and try a conservative, natural approach.

Nerves that go into your arms and legs come from the spinal column and leave the spine in the neck or lower back. This is the most likely place for a nerve to be irritated or impinged (pinched). Dr. Talmadge is experienced in determining whether a condition exists in your spine that may be the cause. With a thorough examination and xrays, if needed, structural problems can be discovered and a course of treatment recommended. In addition to this, Dr. Talmadge will recommend lifestyle changes when necessary to help speed your recovery along.

Many people will use over the counter or prescription medications to ease or alleviate the pain or muscle spasms. While this provides relief for a short while, it will not correct structural problems which may lie at the core of your problem. It is important to seek chiropractic advice concerning the reason you are in pain.

Don't delay! The longer a condition exists, the harder it is to relieve or treat.