A pinched nerve happens when there is increased pressure by the surrounding tissue to a peripheral nerve (the nerve that runs outside the brain and spinal cord) or any nerve where the pain is felt. If the pinch is excessive, the pressure will impede the function of the affected nerve. Weakness, numbness or a tingling sensation are common pains arising from a pinched nerve.

Herniated or bulging disc can cause pressure on the tissue surrounding the nerve. It can be a cartilage or bone that compresses the nerve. In some cases, it could be the tendons or muscles that cause the pain. With a pinched nerve, the nerve itself fails to send a message to the muscle to perform its function. Weak muscles could be a result of a pinched nerve.

Pinched nerve is mostly associated with back and neck pain, though it can happen in your wrists, legs, or elbows. Too much pressure on these areas affect the nerve function in that area, causing the muscles to numb and be sore.

Signs and Symptoms

One of the most obvious symptoms is a tingling sensation or numbness. For example, if you work prolonged hours typing on a computer, you may suffer from carpal tunnel, a pain associated with weakness and numbness of the muscles in the wrist. Though the pain is not permanent, the pain returns while typing. The pain can be burning or some form of electrical shock. The pinched nerve that affects the bones and muscles may become weak if not given immediate or proper concern.

Take a look at these areas; you could have a pinched nerve in any of them or a combination of them:

  • Sciatic nerve—pain from lower back down to the hips and legs
  • Cervical spine—pain in the neck area, affecting arms and shoulder blades
  • Carpal tunnel—pain in the wrist
  • Peroneal nerve—pain found in the legs due to habitual sitting with crossed legs
  • Ulnar nerve—pain felt around the elbow due to prolonged leaning

Causes of Pinched Nerve

The causes of pinched nerve may come from several health conditions:

  • Injuries from sports or accidents
  • Stress
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Trauma

The nerves play a crucial role in order for the body to function well. Nerves transmit messages coming from the brain. This process halts when there is pressure in any of the areas described. If the pinched nerve has not been corrected, the pain becomes chronic and it could cause permanent nerve damage.

As a general rule in healthcare, prevention is better than a cure. Go to Spine Wellness Center and let our health professionals check your pinched nerve condition. Our advanced, non-surgical method of correcting pinched nerves is state-of-the art.

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