Pinched Nerve

The symptoms of a pinched nerve vary depending on the location of the nerve and the severity of the compression. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp, aching or burning pain that may radiate outward from the affected area.
• Numbness or a reduced feeling in the area supplied by the nerve.
• A pins-and-needles sensation.
• A sensation that the hand or foot has fallen asleep.
• Muscle weakness in the affected area.
• Radiating pain: Symptoms that travel along the nerve pathway, such as from the lower back down the leg (sciatica) or from the neck down the arm (cervical radiculopathy).

Pinched nerves can occur in various parts of the body such as the neck, back, knee, elbow, or wrist. Peripheral nerve injuries can occur when the nerve is entrapped for a long period. The nerve can be entrapped anywhere along it course. For example, a herniated spinal disc can compress a nerve root causing radiating pain down the leg (sciatica). Compression of the median nerve in the wrist can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. In addition to herniated discs, other common causes include bone spurs from arthritis, repetitive movements, injury, obesity, pregnancy and poor posture.

Risk factors include:

• Aging that leads to degenerative changes in the spine
• Occupation that involves repetitive motions
• Engaging in repetitive activities or sports that put stress on certain parts of the body can lead to nerve compression. Typing, playing a musical instrument, tennis, and golf can all cause a pinched nerve.
• Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy
• Thyroid disease can increase the risk of nerve compression
• Scoliosis, the abnormal curvature of the spine can lead to nerve compression
• Spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal can compress spinal nerves
• Smoking can reduce blood flow to the spine and contribute to disc degeneration

Dr. Colman will review your medical history and assess your symptoms. He will perform a physical examination to evaluate pain, function and reflexes. Imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans can provide detailed images of the body and identify the source of the nerve compression. In some cases he may order an EMG, a test to measure the electrical activity in muscles to determine if a nerve is functioning properly.

Most often a pinched nerve can be treated with conservative measures aimed to relieve pressure and restore normal function. Options include:

• Rest and immobilization to allow the nerve to heal
• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
• NSAIDS and muscle relaxers to reduce inflammation and pain
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain
• Lifestyle changes to improve posture, lose weight and avoid repetitive activities

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerve, such as with removing a herniated disc or bone spur.

Preventing a pinched nerve involves maintaining good posture, using ergonomic workstations, taking regular breaks from repetitive activities, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and using proper techniques when lifting heavy objects.

Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for pinched nerves is crucial for managing and preventing this condition effectively. If you experience symptoms of a pinched nerve, contact Dr. Matthew Colman to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.