What is a pinched nerve?

Nerves consist of cells that carry signals between your body and brain. They are vital to ensure proper body functioning. 

A pinched nerve develops due to excess pressure placed on it by surrounding tissues, such as tendons, muscles, bone, or cartilage. These nerves often feel painful, making simple everyday tasks seem challenging. Treatment helps reduce nerve pressure and pain. 

What are the symptoms of a pinched nerve?

A pinched nerve can cause the following symptoms:

• Discomfort
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Numbness
• Burning
• Dull aching
• Sharp pain
• Neck pain
• Back pain
• Aching

You might also have pain that radiates down the back of one of your legs. Pain resulting from a pinched nerve ranges in severity from mild to severe. It may become worse when you’re sleeping.

See a Pain Medicine Group provider if your symptoms are ongoing or severe. 

What are the risk factors for a pinched nerve?

The risk factors for having a pinched nerve include:

• Heavy lifting
• Bone spurs
• Narrowed spinal canal
• Disc herniation
• Car accident injury
• Other injuries
• Arthritis
• Stress
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Weakness
• Physically demanding jobs
• Playing sports
• Repetitive motions 
• Thyroid disease
• Diabetes
• Overuse
• Pregnancy 
• Prolonged bed rest

Prevention measures include proper athletic training, a nutritious diet, and healthy weight management. It’s important to get plenty of sleep, maintain good posture, minimize stress, and avoid improper lifting techniques. Take frequent breaks from repetitive movements.

How is a pinched nerve diagnosed?

Your Pain Medicine Group provider diagnoses a pinched nerve by discussing your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. They complete a physical exam and may suggest blood testing, nerve testing, X-rays, an ultrasound, an MRI, or other imaging procedures.

How is a pinched nerve treated?

To reduce pain associated with a pinched nerve, your Pain Medicine Group specialist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Rest
• Altering physical activity
• Chiropractic adjustments
• Splint 
• Brace
• Collar 
• Physical therapy
• Medications
• Injections
• Surgery

If conservative treatments haven’t worked to eliminate nerve pain, surgery may be the best option to remove the pressure placed on the affected nerve. You might need surgery to remove a bone spur or herniated spinal disc. 

Your Pain Medicine Group provider follows up to ensure an exceptional outcome and alters your treatment plan whenever needed. Call the office any time you have questions.

Schedule an evaluation at Pain Medicine Group by phone or book one online today to get treated for a pinched nerve.