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Pinched Nerves

Relief for Pinched Nerve Pain from your Louisville Chiropractor

Spine injury

A pinched nerve refers to excessive pressure on a nerve in the body by the surrounding muscles, tissues, tendons, bones or cartilage. The excess pressure results in a disruption of the nerve functioning. This, in turn, can cause pain as well as tingling, weakness or numbness in the area or in a limb that is connected to the affected nerve.  Pinched nerves can potentially occur anywhere in the body. However, they are very common in the back and spine.

Symptoms of Pinched Nerves

Beyond just back pain, this type of pinched nerve can also radiate into other areas of the body. A herniated disc in the upper back can cause a pinched nerve that causes shoulder, arm and wrist pain, tingling, numbness or weakness.  Away from the spine, a pinched nerve in the elbow or wrist can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome and other overuse injuries and effects.
 

The main signs and symptoms of a pinched nerve include:

  • Sharp, aching or burning pain, which may radiate outward
  • Decreased sensation or numbness in the area supplied by the nerve
  • Muscle weakness  
  • Tingling or pins and needles sensation
  • Sensation that a hand, foot or limb has "fallen asleep"

These sensations can disrupt sleep patterns and generally reduce the quality of life. You may also have difficulty doing normal daily activities related to work, sports, or basic functioning.

What Causes Pinched Nerves?

If spinal discs become compromised due to injury or overuse, the softer inner material of the disc can begin to bulge outward from in between the vertebrae. As it protrudes, it can bump up against the nearby nerves of the spinal column, causing pain and irritation. As this material from in between the vertebrae pushes out even harder, a pinched nerve can result.

Nerves that are pinched for a limited amount of time usually don’t result in major pain and discomfort. It is a persistent pressure that can start to cause the pain and symptoms associated with this condition.  

Some of the top causes of pinched nerves include:

  • Work or sports injury
  • Car accident
  • Arthritis
  • Repetitive activity
  • Poor posture
  • Bad form during activities
  • Bone spurs
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Thyroid disease
  • Diabetes
  • Pregnancy
  • Prolonged bed rest
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Obesity

Pinched Nerve Treatment is Available From Your Louisville Chiropractor

To avoid getting a pinched nerve, consider doing the following:

  • Maintain good posture and ergonomics
  • Do stretching, strength and flexibility exercises regularly
  • Limit repetitive activities
  • Take frequent breaks from activity
  • Maintain a healthy weight

If you have the symptoms of a pinched nerve, see your Louisville chiropractor at  Highland Chiropractic right away. Chiropractic adjustments are often the solution to the deepest causes of nerve pain. Our staff are experts at finding and treating the source of the pinched nerve at its root, immediately reducing pain and symptoms and promoting healing. To schedule an appointment, call our Louisville office at 502-454-5000.