A pinched nerve can be very uncomfortable and make it hard to do your daily activities. Knowing the signs, reasons why it happens, and looking into non-surgical treatment options can assist in managing and lessening this condition’s effects. The Head and Neck Centers of Excellence have years of experience offering full care for the cause of a pinched nerve, and assisting you in getting back to a life without pain.
What is a Pinched Nerve and Its Symptoms
A pinched nerve is when tissues around it, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, put too much pressure on an individual nerve. This pressing can disturb the function of this particular nerve, leading to pain feelings and sensations such as tingling, numbness, or weakness in the area. Common symptoms of a pinched nerve include:
- Sharp or burning pain radiating outward
- Numbness or decreased sensation in the affected area
- Tingling or a “pins and needles” sensation
- Muscle weakness in the affected area
- Feeling that a part of your body has “fallen asleep”
Early identification of these symptoms and appropriate treatment for a pinched nerve can prevent further complications and aid in quicker recovery.
Different Causes of Pinched Nerves
Knowing why nerves become pinched can aid in preventing and dealing with this issue. The usual causes are:
- Repeated Actions: Actions that need repeating, such as hand, wrist, or shoulder motions, sitting at a computer on the daily, or even over use of a mobile device may cause pressure on delicate nerves.
- Injury: Trauma from motor vehicle accidents , slips and falls, or sports can cause swelling or abnormal spinal biomechanics that pinch nerves.
- Arthritis: Inflammation from arthritis can compress nerves, particularly in spinal joints.
- Herniated Discs: Discs that bulge out of place can press against spinal nerves.
- Obesity: Excess weight can create pressure on nerves, especially in the lower back area.
- Long-term Posture: Sitting or standing in the same position for a long time may lead to nerve compression.
At The Head and Neck Centers of Excellence, we investigate what is causing your pinched nerve. Our treatment plans are made specifically to address these issues.
What Doctor Treats a Pinched Nerve?
When selecting a healthcare professional for pinched nerve treatment, it is essential to have the correct person. Various kinds of doctors can treat pinched nerves, and this depends on what is causing them and where the nerve compression happens. The specialists are:
- Neurologists: Focus on nerve function and disorders.
- Orthopedic Surgeons: Specialize in bones, joints, and muscles and use surgery as a solution.
- Chiropractors: Treat musculoskeletal issues, including spinal misalignments that may cause pinched nerves.
- Physiotherapists: Specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation.
At the Centers of Excellence for Head and Neck, our team works together in different areas of expertise, such as neurology, chiropractic medicine, and physical rehabilitation. We design a comprehensive plan for your specific situation.
6 Non-Surgical Treatments for Pinched Nerves
Non-surgical treatments can often manage pinched nerves and ease the symptoms. Here are six non-surgical pinched nerve treatment options:
- Physical Therapy: Customized exercises and stretching techniques reduce pressure on the nerve, enhance flexibility, and strengthen the muscles around it. Our physical therapy team creates tailored rehabilitation plans for your unique condition.
- Chiropractic Care: Gentle adjustments to realign vertebrae can decrease nerve pressure. Chiropractic care is a main element of our pinched nerve treatment method at the Head and Neck Centers of Excellence. It provides important relief for many patients.
- Medication: The medical team may suggest nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or muscle relaxants to alleviate inflammation and pain. They will decide the correct medications for you, considering your health condition and history.
- Massage Therapy: Massaging can help relax tight muscles and increase blood flow to the nerve area. We have professional massage therapists who provide specific treatments aiming to ease tension and lessen pain.
- Ergonomic Changes: Changing your work or home setting to decrease repetitive strain and enhance posture can avoid additional nerve compression. We deliver ergonomic evaluations and suggestions to help you make the necessary modifications.
- Acupuncture: This method can wake up nerves, muscles, and the tissue that holds them together. It helps to encourage the body’s own healing processes. In our comprehensive method, we use acupuncture as an additional treatment for pinched nerves.
Not all cases of pinched nerve treatment require surgery. Knowing about the condition and discussing non-surgical options can help find effective relief and recovery methods. The Head and Neck Centers of Excellence provides a full range of treatments, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy, customized to your needs. Do not allow a pinched nerve to control you, contact us for consultation and make the initial move towards better health.
