A compressed nerve, often commonly called a “pinched nerve,” occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues—such as bone, cartilage, tendons, or muscles. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit signals, leading to pain, weakness, and other distinct symptoms.
The most common locations for nerve compression are in the spine (like sciatica in the lower back) and in joints where nerves pass through narrow spaces, such as the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome) or the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome).
What It Feels Like
The symptoms of a compressed nerve often follow the specific path of the affected nerve. If you’ve ever had a limb “fall asleep,” you’ve experienced mild nerve compression. More chronic compression usually results in a cluster of symptoms, including:
- Sharp, aching, or burning pain that may radiate outward.
- Tingling or “pins and needles” (paresthesia).
- Numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve.
- Muscle weakness that makes certain movements difficult.
Causes and Treatment
Nerve compression is typically caused by:
- Repetitive Motions: Activities that put sustained stress on joints, often leading to swelling (e.g., typing leading to carpal tunnel).
- Injury or Trauma: Acute events that shift structures, like a herniated disc compressing a nerve root in the spine.
- Poor Posture: Sustained positions that tighten muscles and compress nerves in the neck or shoulder.
Fortunately, most cases of compressed nerves respond well to conservative treatments, particularly Physical Therapy. Treatment focuses on relieving the pressure through techniques like Manual Therapy and specific exercises to improve mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and correct posture, allowing the nerve to heal and signal properly. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term damage
A compressed nerve, often commonly called a “pinched nerve,” occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues—such as bone, cartilage, tendons, or muscles. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s ability to transmit signals, leading to pain, weakness, and other distinct symptoms.
The most common locations for nerve compression are in the spine (like sciatica in the lower back) and in joints where nerves pass through narrow spaces, such as the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome) or the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome).
What It Feels Like
The symptoms of a compressed nerve often follow the specific path of the affected nerve. If you’ve ever had a limb “fall asleep,” you’ve experienced mild nerve compression. More chronic compression usually results in a cluster of symptoms, including:
- Sharp, aching, or burning pain that may radiate outward.
- Tingling or “pins and needles” (paresthesia).
- Numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve.
- Muscle weakness that makes certain movements difficult.
Causes and Treatment
Nerve compression is typically caused by:
- Repetitive Motions: Activities that put sustained stress on joints, often leading to swelling (e.g., typing leading to carpal tunnel).
- Injury or Trauma: Acute events that shift structures, like a herniated disc compressing a nerve root in the spine.
- Poor Posture: Sustained positions that tighten muscles and compress nerves in the neck or shoulder.
Fortunately, most cases of compressed nerves respond well to conservative treatments, particularly Physical Therapy. Treatment focuses on relieving the pressure through techniques like Manual Therapy and specific exercises to improve mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and correct posture, allowing the nerve to heal and signal properly. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term damage. Contact us today to book an appointment.