Conditions
People of any age can experience pinched nerves. The term ‘pinched nerve’ refers to a type of injury or damage to a single nerve or a set of nerves. When adjacent tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles or tendons press on the nerve roots, a ‘pinched nerve’ occurs. This compression upsets the nerve’s functions, causing radiating pain, muscle weakness or numbness in the area supplied by the nerve, tingling sensations or recurrent feeling that a foot or hand has ‘fallen asleep.’
The range of such injuries may vary from minor, temporary damage to a more permanent condition. Nerve pinching for a short period won’t likely cause permanent damage. Once pressure is relieved, nerve function can typically return to normal. However, if pain or pressure becomes chronic, it can lead to permanent nerve damage. Thus, early diagnosis is critical to prevent further damage or complications.
A number of conditions may cause tissue to compress a single nerve or a bunch of nerves.
If the disc material leaks, it can put pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves. This causes numbness or severe pain in the path of the nerve being pinched.
RA is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation particularly in the joints. It can also affect the nerves and trigger numbness and tingling sensations.
Certain jobs or hobbies that require repetitive movements of the hand, wrist of shoulder, increase the likelihood of a pinched nerve. Also, staying in one position for long periods such as bending elbows while sleeping can also put pressure on the nerves. Prolonged bed rest can likewise intensify the risk of nerve compression.
Excess weight causes pressure on nerves that pass through the central canal. When you are overweight or obese, it strains the various parts of your spine, causing discomfort or debilitating pain.
Bone spurs are bony projections that develop along the bony edges that often form in the joints and on the bones of the spine, mainly caused by joint damage associated with osteoarthritis. Bone spurs narrow the space where the nerves travel, causing nerve pinching, paresthesia (tingling) and pain.
A pinched nerve occurs when there is undue pressure on a nerve, leading to various symptoms that can affect daily life. Here are the key signs and symptoms of a pinched nerve presented as a listicle:
Often the first signs, these symptoms may initially appear intermittently but can become persistent as the condition worsens.
Commonly described as a pins-and-needles feeling, this symptom indicates nerve compression and typically follows the pathway of the affected nerve.
Sharp, radiating, or burning pain is common and usually extends along the nerve’s pathway, affecting areas where the nerve provides sensation or movement.
There may be numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve, affecting the shoulder, arm, hand, fingers, buttock, leg, or foot depending on the nerve’s location.
Our professional team of providers and staff will provide you with the care that’s right for you.
Chiropractic care offers a targeted approach to alleviating the discomfort caused by a pinched nerve, focusing on reducing nerve compression through spinal alignment and other non-invasive techniques. Chiropractors employ spinal adjustments to relieve pressure on the affected nerves, enhancing nerve function and reducing pain. These adjustments are complemented by soft tissue therapies that help to relax surrounding muscles and decrease inflammation, further easing nerve impingement.
In addition to manual treatments, chiropractors may incorporate therapeutic exercises and stretches that strengthen and stabilize the spine and surrounding areas, preventing future episodes. Patients also receive advice on posture and ergonomic changes to support spine health and maintain proper alignment. This comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate symptoms of a pinched nerve but also aims to enhance overall spinal health, ensuring long-term relief and improved functionality.
Chiropractic care alleviates symptoms of a pinched nerve by correcting spinal misalignments and relieving pressure on the affected nerve. Techniques such as spinal adjustments and manipulation help restore proper alignment and spacing between vertebrae, which reduces nerve irritation and inflammation, thereby easing pain and improving nerve function.
Signs that you might have a pinched nerve include persistent pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the area of the nerve or along its path into your arms or legs. If these symptoms are accompanied by neck or back pain, chiropractic care may be particularly beneficial.
Some patients may experience immediate relief following a chiropractic adjustment, while others may notice improvement gradually over a series of treatments. The immediacy of pain relief can vary depending on the severity and location of the pinched nerve, as well as the patient’s overall health and the duration of the condition.
A chiropractor may suggest a treatment plan that includes spinal adjustments, manual therapy, and possibly traction or decompression therapy, depending on the severity of the pinched nerve. The plan might also include exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve range of motion, and decrease the likelihood of future nerve compression.
Chiropractic treatment is generally considered safe for treating pinched nerves, but as with any medical treatment, there are potential risks. These may include temporary discomfort, soreness, or increased pain following treatment. A licensed chiropractor will assess risks and discuss them with you prior to treatment, ensuring that care is appropriately tailored to your needs and condition.
Our professional team of providers and staff will provide you with the care that’s right for you.
N8 Family Chiropractic provides quality chiropractic and wellness services at each of our locations. Whether you are young or young at heart, we believe chiropractic care can help you.
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