Do I Have a Pinched Nerve?

• What is a Pinched Nerve?

  A pinched nerve occurs when a nerve in the spine is stretched, constricted, or compressed, which results in pressure that disrupts the nerve’s normal function. The nerves in our bodies send sensory information from the body to the brain as well as delivers instructions for movement from the body to the brain. When the nerve is compromised, it can’t deliver functions correctly. As a result, numbness, tingling, or pinching is felt in the nerve.

• What Causes a Pinched Nerve?

  The human spine is made of 31 pairs of nerves that control the movements and sensations in different parts of the body. When the spongy-like disc or vertebrae “slip” out of place, is compressed, or “pinch” the nerves, this is called a pinched nerve. A pinched nerve can also occur due to soft tissues that surround the nerve becoming swollen or inflamed.

  Changes that occur naturally in the body such as arthritis can often be the cause of a pinched nerve too. Other causes include:
  • Injury and trauma that cause impact-related inflammation or
  compression
  • Poor posture when sitting or standing up
  • Improper lifting or reaching
  • Obesity

• What Are Common Pinched Nerve Symptoms?

  Tingling, pain, numbness, and “pins and needle” in the arms and legs is a common indicator that you have a pinched nerve. Common symptoms include:
  • Radiating pain along the path of the nerve. Depending on where the
  pinched nerve is located, your legs or arms will be affected by the pain.
  • Numbness and tingling usually occur due to specific actions or
  movements.
  • Muscle weakness

  If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of a pinched nerve, use our pain assessment tool to start your diagnosis.

How Are Pinched Nerves Treated?

• Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Pinched Nerves

  Conservative, non-surgical treatment options are the first step in alleviating pain, depending on the severity of the pain and underlying issue. Non-surgical treatment options are:
  • Activity modification
  • Anti-inflammatories
  • Modification to activities
  • Physical therapy
  • Rest

• Robotic Surgical Treatments for Pinched Nerves

  Robotic surgery is a great option for treating pinched nerves when non-surgical treatment options don’t work. With robotic-assisted surgery, our surgeons are able to create a unique surgical plan that pinpoints the exact issue, resulting in an extremely precise and accurate minimally invasive treatment.

  As with any spinal condition, it’s important to seek medical advice and treatment before the condition becomes too serious. Whether non-surgical or surgical treatment, the path to a pain-free life is waiting for you. Find the right treatment for you with our treatment finder assessment.