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If you’ve been experiencing sharp, stabbing discomfort, especially if you feel shooting pain in your back or neck, you may have pinched a nerve. For effective relief, contact John East, DO, and the team at Addison Pain + Regenerative Medicine in Addison, Texas. The team offers a full range of services to help you manage the pain and weakness of a pinched nerve and get you back to a more enjoyable life. To learn more, contact the office by phone or book an appointment online today.
What causes a pinched nerve?
While your body’s systems typically work smoothly together, occasionally, your bones, muscles, cartilage, or tendons can move into a position that puts pressure on a nerve. This can happen throughout your body but most typically occurs in the lower back, neck, or another area of your spine. Common causes include:
- Herniated discs
- Bone spurs
- Arthritis
- Wear-and-tear associated with aging
- Sports injuries
- Repetitive tasks (e.g., typing)
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
You are at a greater risk of pinched nerves if you have degenerative disc disease. As you age, your spinal discs become smaller and less flexible, and the space for your nerves to exit the protective spinal column may narrow. This is a primary cause of pinched nerves.
How do I know if I have a pinched nerve?
If you have pinched a nerve in your cervical spine, you may have a stiff neck, numbness, and pain through your shoulder and arm. A pinched nerve in your lower back may send pain through your back, across the hips, and down your buttocks and legs. In general, look out for the following:
- Sharp or dull pain
- Numbness
- A pins and needles feeling
- Muscle weakness
- The sensation that an area has fallen asleep
If your symptoms persist, visit the team at Addison Pain + Regenerative Medicine.
How is a pinched nerve treated?
Pinched nerves are painful but usually fully treatable with proper care. The team will begin with a physical examination to detect any muscle weakness or changes in your reflexes and a discussion of your symptoms. They may also use X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or electromyography (EMG) tests to diagnose your pinched nerve’s cause.
The Addison Pain + Regenerative Medicine team may use one or a combination of effective treatments for your personalized care plan. These may include:
Non-narcotic medications
Best for mild or moderate pain, this treatment might include oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or neuropathic pain medications.
Chiropractic care
Chiropractic adjustments can ensure proper alignment of your spinal column, taking pressure off overworked areas and helping you relax and heal naturally.
Trigger point injections
Trigger point injections treat areas of collected tension in your muscles, allowing them to let go and heal.
Nerve block procedures
Nerve block procedures can be useful for treating chronic pain because of a pinched nerve.
A cervical collar may also help to release a trapped nerve in the neck and relieve pain.
To get prompt help for your pinched nerve pain, reach out to the Addison Pain + Regenerative Medicine office by phone or online today.