- Common cause
- A pinched nerve in the neck or back
- How we treat it
- Adjustments, decompression + exercise
- First visit
- About 45 to 60 minutes
- Insurance
- Medicare and most major plans
Why arm and leg pain often starts in the spine
The nerves to your arms leave the spine in your neck, and the nerves to your legs leave it in your lower back. When a disc, stiff joint, or tight muscle presses on one of those nerves, you can feel it anywhere along the nerve's path, even in your hand or foot. Leg pain from the lower back is often called sciatica.
Common symptoms
- Pain that travels down the arm or leg
- Tingling, pins and needles, or numbness
- Weakness in the hand, arm, leg, or foot
- Symptoms that change with neck or back position
How we treat it
We test your spine, nerves, strength, and reflexes to find where the nerve is being irritated. Then we build a plan that can include:
- Chiropractic adjustments to restore motion in the neck or back
- Spinal decompression to take pressure off an irritated disc
- Soft tissue work for tight muscles along the nerve's path
- Corrective exercises that ease nerve pain and support the spine
Where we see you
We have two offices, both inside Parkway Athletic Club and open to everyone, no gym membership needed. South Reno is on Double Diamond Parkway, close to Damonte Ranch and South Meadows. Sparks is on East Lincoln Way, near The Outlets at Legends.
Questions
What happens at the first visit?
We talk through your history and check how you move to find the source of the problem, then explain what's going on and your options. New patient visits take about 45 to 60 minutes.
When should I see a medical doctor instead?
Call 911 for sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, arm pain with chest pain or shortness of breath, or trouble speaking. Go to the emergency room for loss of bladder or bowel control. See a medical doctor first for a swollen, red, painful calf, which can be a blood clot, or leg pain that comes on with walking and eases with rest.
Is chiropractic care covered by insurance?
We accept Medicare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Tricare, and many more, plus workers' compensation and auto accident claims. Call us and we'll check your benefits before you start.
Do I need a referral?
No referral needed. You can book directly with Dr. Covert online or by phone.