What are Pinched Nerves?
A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, apply excessive pressure on a nerve. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s function, leading to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. Pinched nerves can happen in various areas of the body, most commonly in the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine).
Types of Bulging Discs
Cervical Radiculopathy: Nerve compression in the neck affecting the shoulders, arms, and hands.
Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica): Compression in the lower back causing radiating leg pain.
Thoracic Radiculopathy: Less common, involves mid-back nerves.
Causes
• Herniated Discs – Discs pressing on nearby nerves.
• Bone Spurs (Osteophytes) – Overgrowth of bone narrowing nerve pathways.
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Spinal Stenosis
• Repetitive Movements or Overuse
• Trauma or Injury
• Obesity Increasing Pressure
• Prolonged Poor Posture
Symptoms
• Sharp, burning pain radiating along the nerve path
• Numbness or decreased sensation
• Tingling (“pins and needles”)
• Muscle weakness
• Worsening symptoms with certain movements
• Neck or back stiffness
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies such as MRI, CT scans, and X-rays. Nerve conduction studies and EMG can also evaluate nerve and muscle function.
Conservative Treatment
• Rest and Activity Modification
• Physical Therapy – Exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and posture.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroid Injections
• Heat and Ice Therapy
• Bracing (e.g., neck collar or lumbar brace)
• Ergonomic Adjustments
Surgical Treatment
• Microdiscectomy – Removal of part of a herniated disc.
• Laminectomy – Removal of bone or ligament to create more space.
• Foraminotomy – Widening of the nerve passageway.
Surgical options are determined based on the underlying cause, symptom severity, and overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a pinched nerve take to heal?
A: With conservative treatment, many patients improve within 4–6 weeks. Some cases take longer, however if the symptoms are still there, then surgery may be necessary.
Q: Can a pinched nerve cause permanent damage?
A: Most of the time a pinched nerve can be treated with conservative care, however if the symptoms are still there for an extended period of time and have not been addressed, it could lead to nerve damage..
Q: Should I avoid exercise?
A: Avoid aggravating movements, but gentle stretching and physical therapy are often recommended. Exercise can also help to strengthen the core muscles that reduce pressure on your spinal column therefore reducing pressure on the nerves.
Q: When should I see a doctor?
A: If you have severe pain, weakness, or bladder/bowel dysfunction, seek prompt medical evaluation.
Q: Is surgery always necessary?
A: No—most pinched nerves improve with time or conservative treatment, however if conservative treatment failed to relieve the symptoms then surgery may be necessary.