What is a Pinched Nerve?
Nerves travel through some narrow spaces in your body and have little soft tissue to protect them. A pinched nerve occurs when a nerve or set of nerves in the body are stretched, constricted, or compressed (pressure) by surrounding tissues. In some cases, this tissue might be bone, cartilage, muscle, or tendons that presses on the nerve. Symptoms that can arise from this are: a numbing sensation, “pins and needles”, and/or a burning feeling around the affected area. Often the symptoms from a pinched nerve can lessen simply with rest, but when they do not, a chiropractor may be able to help.
What are some Causes?
A number of conditions may cause the tissue to compress a nerve or nerves, including:
- Injury
- Poor posture
- Rheumatoid or wrist arthritis
- Stress from repetitive work
- Hobbies or sports activities
- Obesity
A pinched nerve can occur at different points of your body. A bulging or herniated disk (Disc weakens or tears) in your lower spine may put pressure on a nerve root, causing pain to radiate down the back of your leg and foot (lumbar radiculopathy or sciatic nerve pain). It may also cause pain to radiate from the neck into the shoulder and arm (cervical radiculopathy). A pinched nerve in your wrist can lead to pain and numbness in your hand and fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome). The pressure may be the result of repetitive motions. Or it may happen from holding your body in one position for long periods, such as keeping elbows bent while sleeping. Sometimes symptoms worsen when you try certain movements, such as turning your head or straining your neck.
A pinched nerve can cause multiple problems that can affect your daily life. Here are some symptoms you may not be aware of:
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Headaches
- Spinal Pain
- Radiating Arm or Leg Pain
- Limited Range of Motion
- Trouble Sitting for Long Periods of Time
- Difficulty Finding Comfortable Sleeping Positions
If nerve compression lasts a long time, a protective barrier around the nerve may break down. Fluid may build-up, which may cause swelling, extra pressure, and scarring. The scarring may interfere with the nerve’s function. Damage from a pinched nerve may be minor or severe. It may cause temporary or long-lasting problems. The earlier you get a diagnosis and treatment for nerve compression, the more quickly you’ll find relief.
Chiro & Sports Med
Our chiropractors at Chiro & Sports Med are committed to providing chiropractic solutions to address your unique needs, whether you are experiencing an irritated nerve, bulging disc, back pain, neck pain, knee pain, headaches, or even muscular tightness and tension. You may be searching for pain relief after an accident or experiencing an injury. Our mission is to help reduce or eliminate pain and to prevent future problems and injury. Above all, we are here to improve your quality of life, well-being, and your ability to live an active healthy lifestyle.
If you would like to make an appointment with one of the chiropractors at Chiro & Sports Med simply call our office on 9817 2005 and one of our friendly staff will organise an appointment for you.
