Nerves are a collection of neurons that connect your brain and spinal cord with other parts of your body. They are an integral part of your nervous system, as all essential information in your body is sent through these tiny fibers.
Sometimes, our nerves get damaged, which can cause mild to severe pain and discomfort. A pinched nerve is one of those instances. So, what exactly is a pinched nerve, and how does it happen?
What Is a Pinched Nerve?
A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues such as muscles, cartilage, tendon, or bones press on the nerve. When too much pressure is applied, the nerve gets damaged, and its function gets disrupted. That can cause pain, weakness, numbness, and other unusual sensations.
A pinched nerve can occur in different areas of your body. Most commonly, a herniated disc can apply pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain in parts of your body. That’s where a chiropractor can help, as they utilize several approaches to manipulate the spine and put a herniated disc back into its original position.
What Are the Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve?
Pinched nerves can occur in your neck, shoulders, back, upper chest, arms, wrist, and other areas. The symptoms of a pinched nerve may include:
- An intense pain that may radiate outward
- Numbness of a body part connected to that nerve
- A tingling sensation in the affected area
- Muscle weakness
- A tendency for the extremities to “fall asleep”
- Stiff neck
Pinched nerves usually go away on their own, with a bit of rest and medication. However, this condition can become more serious, leading to chronic pain or even permanent nerve damage. That’s why you should see a professional if some of these symptoms last for several days without improving.
What Causes Pinched Nerves?
Like we mentioned earlier, pinched nerves occur when a bone, cartilage, muscles, or tendons put unusual pressure on them. That can be the result of:
- Injury
- Repetitive jobs causing stress
- Sports or active hobbies
- Obesity
- Arthritis
Interestingly, people with thyroid disease or diabetes are more likely to suffer from a pinched nerve. Also, this condition affects women more, especially during pregnancy.
How to Prevent a Pinched Nerve
Although you can’t prevent injuries and certain autoimmune conditions such as arthritis, there are some measures you can take to minimize your chances of pinching a nerve.
That includes maintaining a healthy weight and good posture. Don’t sit or lay down in one position for a long time, and make sure to switch it up every hour. You should also limit repetitive activities and take frequent breaks when engaging in them. Lastly, you should stay active and incorporate strength and mobility exercises in your everyday life.
What to Do if You Feel the Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve?
If you feel some of the symptoms of a pinched nerve, it is time to visit a professional. Dr. Scott Bolz and a team of experienced chiropractors started a practice in the beautiful town of Springs, Texas, over 25 years ago.
Their combined expertise makes Spring Chiropractic a perfect place to get the chiropractic care you need to relieve the symptoms of your pinched nerve. Feel free to contact us today, and book your appointment.