Pinched Nerve Symptoms: When Can Chiropractic Care Help?

A pinched nerve can cause much more than localized discomfort. When surrounding tissues place pressure on a nerve, symptoms may travel into the arms, hands, legs, or feet and interfere with everyday movement. At 22 Health, we help patients determine whether their symptoms may be related to a musculoskeletal issue and whether chiropractic care may be an appropriate part of their treatment plan.

What Is a Pinched Nerve?

A pinched or compressed nerve occurs when nearby structures place excessive pressure on a nerve. This may involve spinal joints, discs, muscles, or other tissues. Nerve compression can occur in different areas of the body, but the neck and lower back are common locations.

For example, irritation of a nerve in the lower back can contribute to symptoms that extend into the buttock or leg. Nerve irritation in the neck may produce symptoms that travel into the shoulder, arm, or hand.

Common Pinched Nerve Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the nerve irritation. Some people experience intermittent discomfort, while others notice persistent symptoms that make sitting, walking, sleeping, or working more difficult.

Possible pinched nerve symptoms include:

•          Sharp, aching, or burning pain

•          Tingling or a pins-and-needles sensation

•          Numbness in the affected area

•          Pain that travels into an arm or leg

•          Muscle weakness in the affected area

Because several conditions can cause similar symptoms, identifying the underlying source is important before beginning treatment.

What Causes Nerve Compression?

Nerves can become irritated for a variety of reasons. Herniated or bulging discs, degenerative changes in the spine, joint dysfunction, muscle tension, inflammation, and injuries may all contribute to nerve-related symptoms.

Poor posture and repetitive movements can also place additional stress on certain areas over time. For some patients, symptoms develop gradually. For others, they may begin after an auto accident, sports injury, lifting injury, or sudden movement.

When Can Chiropractic Care Help?

Chiropractic care may be helpful when nerve symptoms are related to mechanical problems involving the spine and surrounding musculoskeletal structures. At 22 Health, we evaluate how the spine and joints are moving and consider the location, duration, and severity of your symptoms before recommending care.

Depending on your individual needs, chiropractic adjustments and physiotherapy may be used as part of a conservative treatment approach. Our goal is to improve joint function, address contributing musculoskeletal issues, and help patients move more comfortably. Our team provides chiropractic adjustments, physiotherapy, sciatica care, and other services based on each patient's individual needs.

If you are dealing with possible pinched nerve symptoms, schedule a consultation with 22 Health to learn whether chiropractic care may be appropriate for your needs. Contact our office in Altamonte Springs, Florida, by calling (407) 951-8921 to book an appointment today.