Pinched Nerve

The term “pinched nerve” is somewhat of an umbrella term that is commonly used to describe the pain associated with a variety of conditions from subluxations to tunnel syndromes to pain from trigger points.

Most of the time, what is called a pinched nerve is actually an irritated or inflamed nerve where the nerve itself is not actually pinched. In most cases, nerves become irritated and inflamed when the bones, joints or muscles of the spine are not in their proper position or are not moving properly, known as a “subluxation.” Treating a subluxation is one of our specialties!

There are instances when nerves do become ‘pinched’ and are referred to as “tunnel syndromes”, such as in Carpal Tunnel, Sciatica, and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. In each of these cases, injury, spasm or inflammation of the surrounding muscles and connective tissue causes the nerve to become compressed, resulting in pain.

Trigger points are very tight “knots” of muscle that form when muscles are either chronically overworked or injured and are often experienced as a pinching or burning pain. Trigger points will commonly cause pain that radiates to other parts of the body, which is also known as referred pain.

It is very important that the cause of any form of pain be properly diagnosed by a professional. This is especially important when nerves are severely affected or long-term irritation and/or compression, of a nerve can lead to permanent nerve damage. If you have been told that you have a “pinched nerve” it is very important that you seek professional care from a doctor of chiropractic as soon as possible.