What Is A Pinched Nerve?

If you have inexplicable back or neck pain, continue reading to discover five symptoms that may indicate a pinched nerve.

1. DISTRIBUTING PAIN

When a nerve is compressed, pain typically radiates along some or all of the nerve’s sensory or motor pathway. A pinched nerve in the cervical spine may result in neck pain that spreads down the shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers. A pinched nerve in the lumbar spine may produce back discomfort that extends to the hip, buttock, leg, and foot. The discomfort may be severe, searing, or painful.

Sciatica is a collection of symptoms caused by compression of the major sciatic nerve in the lumbar spine. Sciatica is characterized by unilateral discomfort that radiates from the low back to the buttock, back of the thigh, calf, and foot.

If you have a pinched nerve in your low back, the pain may be worsened by lengthy periods of sitting or standing, as these positions impose additional pressure on the spine and nerves. You may also have quick, shooting pain when engaging in vigorous activities such as coughing, sneezing, or laughing. If you have a pinched nerve in the neck, turning your head may exacerbate your discomfort and stiffness.

2. ABSENCE OR REDUCED SENSATIONS

A pinched nerve may cause numbness or a lack of sensation in the affected part of the body. A pinched nerve in the neck can cause numbness in the shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers. A pinched nerve in the back can cause numbness in the buttock, leg, or foot.

3. TINGLING OR FEELING OF PINS AND NEEDLES

Along the route of a nerve, tingling, pins & needles, or pinprick-like sensations are common indicators of nerve compression. If a nerve in your neck is squeezed, you may notice tingling in your shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers. If a nerve in your low back is squeezed, you may notice tingling in your buttock, leg, and foot.

4. MUSCULAR DEFICIENCY

Muscle weakness and loss of motor function can result from nerve compression in the afflicted areas of the body. You may have difficulties walking normally or grabbing and holding objects, depending on the position of the compressed nerve. A pinched nerve may be the cause of unexpected weakness if there is no apparent cause.

5. A HAND OR FOOT OFTEN “FALLS ASLEEP”

It is natural to experience the sensation of “falling asleep” when sitting or sleeping on a hand or foot for too long. In such instances, an abnormal body position causes momentary constriction that is alleviated by movement or walking. However, if you experience frequent “falling asleep” sensations or if they occur for no apparent reason, it could indicate a pinched nerve in the neck or back.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT A NERVE COMPROMISE

Consult a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms described above. To confirm a diagnosis of a pinched nerve, your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests. Fortunately, many cases of nerve compression can be effectively treated at home. During the healing process, your physician will advise you to relax and minimize activities that irritate or stress the injured nerve. OTC pain medicines and ice/heat compresses can help alleviate moderate to severe pain and inflammation. Physical treatment may also be recommended by your physician. A physical therapist can instruct you in stretches and exercises to alleviate discomfort and pressure on the compressed nerve.

If you continue to experience discomfort and symptoms after several weeks, surgery may be necessary. Untreated nerve compression can result in chronic discomfort and permanent nerve damage. Our surgeons at Integrity Spine and Orthopedics are experts in minimally invasive spine surgeries to remove or repair a bone spur, herniated disc, or vertebral bone that is crushing a nerve or the spinal cord in the neck or back. Our minimally invasive operations are outpatient treatments, allowing patients to return home on the same day. Within a few weeks, many of our patients resume their typical activities.

How Can A Chiropractor Help With A Pinched Nerve?

Typically, a pinched nerve is caused by spinal misalignment, which relates to the tissues of the body. This could include anything from tendons, bones, ligaments, muscle tissue or cartilage. The tissues should not compress or pinch the nerves. If this is the case, though, the tissues will need to be realigned.

This is exactly where a chiropractor can help! A chiropractor will use manual therapy to adjust the alignment of the tissues within the body. While adjusting, the trapped nerve is set free. Of course, surgery can help when it comes to a pinched nerve, but going this route could lead to more side effects and complications than manual therapy. Needless to say, enlisting the services of a chiropractor is the safest way to go.

How To Find A Chiropractor For A Pinched Nerve

Located in Glendale, AZ, We Care Chiropractic has been providing the valley with the best chiropractic services for years. We Care Chiropractic emphasizes its focus on improving overall health, which can prevent further illness and pain. Let We Care Chiropractic help your body function at an all-time high. Chiropractors are a great alternative to traditional medicine, and much less costly than any surgical repairs.

Feel free to contact the team at We Care Chiropractic today! Read more about all the chiropractic services one can find in Glendale.