Why Does My Chronic Pain Radiate?

Every year, millions of people are diagnosed with chronic pain. While acute pain is temporary and usually a result of injury, chronic pain is persistent and can last for weeks, months, or even years. In addition, this type of pain can radiate, which affects nerve signals throughout the body. Radiating pain can start in the area where chronic pain is felt, such as the back or hip, and spread to different areas of the body. Though this condition can greatly impact an individual’s life, understanding why the radiating is occurring and how to best treat it can help you have more peace of mind. Our team at Integrated Health Solutions is ready to assist you in finding a treatment that’s right for you.

Why Does Radiating Pain Occur?

Individuals who experience chronic pain have damage to a certain area of their body. For example, a person who is diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints, may experience radiating pain in different parts of their body. If the inflammation is found in the neck, radiating pain may occur in the arms due to the nerve signals that travel from the neck and down the shoulder. 

Just as a team has to work together to support one another, the systems of the body do the same. The nervous system is responsible for transmitting vital information to various parts of the body in order to alert you when something is wrong. When a chronic condition damages the nerves, it can affect how pain occurs in the body. 

How Do I Know if I Have Radiating Pain?

If you have noticed that your pain has progressed to another area of your body, you may be experiencing radiating pain. Depending on the condition that is contributing to this feeling, different symptoms can indicate that it’s occurring. Here are some common chronic pain areas associated with radiating pain:

• Neck Pain 

Individuals with neck pain may experience radiating pain down their shoulders, arms, and even their fingertips. You may feel a stinging or burning sensation in these areas. 

• Back Pain

Radiating pain associated with back pain may occur down the legs and to the feet or down the arms and to the hands. You may feel a tingling sensation or numbness in these areas. 

• Knee Pain 

If you’re experiencing chronic knee pain, radiating pain may occur up or down the leg. This may be associated with numbness in these areas. 

How is Radiating Pain Treated?

By scheduling a visit at our office, we can determine the severity of your pain and provide you with treatment options to best fit your needs. By conducting a thorough health exam, we will be able to provide a specific treatment plan unique to you. In addition, we can determine if lifestyle changes, such as exercises that focus on strengthening your muscles, will help alleviate the issue. 

Talk with a Member of Our Team Today

If you’re ready to discuss your symptoms with a medical professional, contact our team today. We’re eager to help you find a treatment plan that works for you.