Pinched Nerve

What is a pinched nerve?

A pinched nerve occurs due to compression. If surrounding tissues, like a muscle or bone, move out of position and press on a nerve, it causes pain, numbness, or tingling in other areas of the body.

Herniated discs are the leading cause of pinched nerves, but they can also occur due to carpal tunnel syndrome or sciatica.

What are the symptoms of a pinched nerve?

Common symptoms of a pinched nerve include:

• Pain
• Numbness
• Muscle weakness
• Tingling (pins and needles sensations)
• Muscle spasms

If you experience a pinched nerve, it might also feel like your affected limb has fallen asleep.

When should I see a neurologist about a pinched nerve?

Most pinched nerves resolve on their own with conservative measures of care like ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medication. If your symptoms persist for more than a week or they interfere with your ability to work or exercise, make an appointment at South Valley Neurology right away.

How is a pinched nerve diagnosed?

To diagnose a pinched nerve, your South Valley Neurology provider conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and if any activities like lifting or certain movements make them worse.

If a physical exam doesn’t provide enough insight to make a diagnosis, your provider orders a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test or electromyography (EMG). An NCV test measures the speed at which electrical pulses travel through a nerve and identifies nerve damage. EMG evaluates the electrical activity produced by your muscles.

How is a pinched nerve treated?

Treatment of a pinched nerve depends on the severity of your symptoms, the underlying cause, and their effect on your daily life. Often, South Valley Neurology recommends conservative, noninvasive treatments like:

• Time and rest
• Ice and heat therapy
• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Splints or a cervical collar
• Corticosteroids
• Physical therapy

Your doctor may also recommend the use of specific over-the-counter medications and/or prescribe medications to treat the symptoms of a pinched nerve and help improve daily functioning.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, you might benefit from neurological surgery. There are several types of surgery used to treat a pinched nerve, including discectomy and surgical fusion.

To receive treatment for a pinched nerve, call South Valley Neurology to request an appointment today.