What is a Pinched Nerve, and How Do I Know if I Have One?

What is a Pinched Nerve, and How Do I Know if I Have One?

What is a Pinched Nerve?

A pinched nerve is a nerve that has been compressed by surrounding bones, muscles or tendons. This can happen as the result of a number of injuries, illnesses or conditions. Affected nerves may not function correctly, and they can cause pain and other physical symptoms. They can be a minor annoyance or a serious medical problem, and the recommended treatment will vary based on the severity of the case.

What Causes a Nerves to Become Pinched?

There are a variety of different reasons your nerves could become pinched. If you have a job or hobby that requires continual repetitive motions or if you stay in one position for too long, your nerves could become pinched. Certain injuries, hobbies and sports can also cause your nerves to become pinched. Poor posture, osteoarthritis or obesity can put you at risk as well. If you suffer from inflammation, swollen tendon sheaths, enlarged bones or thickened ligaments or if you have weakened spinal discs, these factors can also cause your nerves to become pinched.

What are the Symptoms of a Nerve that has Been Pinched?

The symptoms you experience will vary based on the severity and location of your affected nerve. The most common symptom you will likely experience is pain, which may be severe or just annoying. Other symptoms you may experience include numbness, tingling, a “pins and needles” sensation, a burning sensation or weakness. Your symptoms may even vary based on the time of day or activity. They may worsen at night or when you do a particular activity such as sneezing or turning your head, depending on where your affected nerve is located.

What Treatment is Available for Affected Nerves?

You may begin treatment by resting and taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce the swelling and help the pain. If the pain lasts for several days, however, you will need to see a doctor who provides treatment for pinched nerves. The doctor may prescribe treatments such as oral corticosteroids, narcotics or steroid injections. You may also need physical therapy or splints. In the most severe cases, you may need surgery to correct your nerve problems.

How Do I Know If I Have a Pinched Nerve?

There is no way to know for sure if your pain is caused by a pinch nerve without opening up your body to see. However, if your symptoms seem to match those listed above, you should visit a doctor. A qualified doctor, like those at La Clinica SC, can diagnose your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan for you.

How Do the Doctors at La Clinica SC Help Ease Nerve Pain?

Our doctors at La Clinica SC are not only experts at treating neuromusculoskeletal pain, but are also committed to delivering the quality care that each of their patients need. They are trained to offer many types of treatment for pinched nerves, including physical therapy, neurology, pain management techniques and surgery.

To schedule your free consultation, you can call our toll-free line (773) 763-2800 or book an appointment online HERE.