What is a Pinched Nerve?
When your spine degrades and discs slip, bulge, or become herniated, they can apply too much pressure to the nerve near them. This pressure on the nerve can cause pain, numbness, and tingling throughout the spine. Pinched nerves are not limited to a single area of the spine, rather they can appear anywhere in the spinal column.
What Causes a Pinched Nerve?
Pinched nerves can be the result of a disc problem bulging, slipping, degenerating, or herniating. Calcium deposits or “bone spurs” also pinch nerves. Some common causes behind a pinched nerve are:
- An injury or accident
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Accumulated wear and tear on the spine
- Obesity
- Family Genetics
Oftentimes, a pinched nerve in the lower back can cause hip pain, thigh pain, kidney pain, cramping sensations or restlessness in the legs. Balance may be affected. A pinched nerve in the neck can cause headache, shoulder pain, arm pain, chest pain, or hand pain/weakness.
What are the Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve?
Symptoms of a pinched nerve can vary based on where the nerve is located. Some of the typical symptoms can include:
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain
- Numbing
- Tingling
- Weakness
What are My Treatment Options for a Pinched Nerve?
Using a medical scribe to record your symptoms while Dr. Callewart talks to you, a thorough physical examination is performed. Dr. Callewart may recommend X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs will be done to look inside your spine. From there, he can determine the best treatment plan.
People are unique and so are their problems. Dr. Callewart doesn’t use a corporate treatment plan. He makes a personal treatment plan for each patient he sees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pinched Nerves
1. What happens if a pinched nerve goes untreated?
If left untreated, it is possible that it will lead to nerve damage.
2. Can a pinched nerve go away on its own?
It is possible for a pinched nerve to go away by repeated movement after an extended period of rest. It is still recommended that if you are suffering symptoms of a pinched nerve to seek professional treatment.
