3 Common Causes of Referred Pain (And How to Address Them)

Referred pain can be tricky – it’s the type of discomfort that shows up in one part of your body, but it’s actually caused by an issue somewhere else. Rochester Hills chiropractors will often see people dealing with this confusing pain, unsure of the source, and while it can be many things, there are a few things that we check first to try to get to the source. Here are three reasons we commonly see referred pain at Vitality Precision Chiropractic, and how we can help!

1. Nerve Compression

One of the most frequent causes of referred pain is nerve compression, especially when it starts in the spine. When nerves are compressed or irritated, the pain can radiate to areas far from the actual site of the issue. For example, a compressed nerve in the neck might lead to pain in the arm or shoulder. This type of referred pain is often related to spinal misalignments that disrupt normal nerve function.

Chiropractic adjustments can help realign the spine and reduce nerve pressure, allowing for better communication between the brain and body. Addressing the root cause of the nerve compression lets us ease the referred pain for relief and improved mobility.

2. Trigger Points in Muscles

Another common cause of referred pain comes from trigger points—knots in your muscles that are tender and tight. These trigger points can send pain to other areas of your body, causing referred pain. For instance, a trigger point in your upper back may lead to headaches or neck pain.

Adjustments from Dr. Thomas Madigan and Dr. Brendan Shanahan can help relax muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce the formation of trigger points. Proper alignment and movement can reduce the overall stress on your muscles, which may decrease the frequency and intensity of referred pain from trigger points.

3. Internal Organ Issues

Sometimes, referred pain is caused by problems with your internal organs – a classic example is the pain from a heart issue that radiates down the left arm. Though not always the case, issues with organs like the heart, lungs, or gallbladder can result in discomfort in seemingly unrelated areas. While chiropractic adjustments don’t address internal organ issues directly, maintaining spinal health can play a supportive role in your overall well-being. Our goal is to keep your nervous system functioning at its best, which can promote optimal health throughout your body.

Find Relief from Referred Pain at Vitality Precision Chiropractic

Referred pain can be frustrating, but understanding its cause is the first step toward finding relief. At Vitality Precision Chiropractic, we focus on the health of your spine and nervous system to help your body function at its highest potential. If you’re dealing with referred pain, contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how chiropractic care may help you feel better!