Pinched Nerve

What is a Pinched Nerve?

Pinched nerves can occur when there is an excess pressure applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues. It can occur in many areas of the body. Pinched nerves are more likely to happen when a person is going through pregnancy or the body has to bear extra weight and water retention.

 

Pinched nerves can occur throughout the body, but it most commonly affects the carpal tunnel and ulnar nerve in the elbow. It also frequently occurs after a perineal nerve injury, patients with sciatica, and in the cervical spine.

 

What does a Pinched Nerve feel like?

  • Symptoms of Pinched Nerves include:

    • Numbness or decreased sensation in the nerves affected area
    • Pain: Sharp, aching or burning 
    • Weakness in muscles

How can a Pinched Nerve be managed?

  • Treatments for Pinched Nerves:

    • In very early stages, anti-inflammatory medication can be taken when the pain is unbearable
    • Splinting or bracing, in rare cases when very acute inflammation is present
    • Joint mobilisation and manual therapy
    • Massage therapy
    • Injections
    • Exercise therapy