What Are “Pinched Nerves”?
The term “pinched nerve”, while a bit of a misnomer, typically refers to irritation, inflammation, or aggravation to a nerve affecting any area that the nerve supplies. Where a true “pinched nerve” would indicate direct pressure on the nerve causing damage and function loss to the nerve and the tissues that it supplies. Nerve irritation, being the most common form of “pinched nerve”, can be a result of localized inflammation, joint fixation (joints that are “stuck” or having abnormal motion), injury, trauma or repetitive motion. When nerves are irritated, not only can they produce pain locally where the nerve is being irritated, but it can also refer pain along the tract of the nerve. For example, nerve irritation in the neck can cause pain radiating into the arm or shoulder. Nerve irritation in the lower back can cause pain along the nerve into the legs.
How are “Pinched Nerves” Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis involves history of the condition, hands-on examination of the involved areas and often diagnostic studies such as X-ray, lab work, and electrodiagnostic studies to determine the true pain generator and the level of nerve involvement. Medical treatment usually consists of rest, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving medication, and monitoring. Often physical therapy is recommended. Surgery should be a last resort for most patients with nerve “Pinched Nerves” because of the complications and risks involved. Many patients with suspected “pinched nerves” find medical treatment alone to be ineffective at treating the underlying cause of the condition and find that the drugs are simply “masking” the symptoms.
What if Other Forms of Treatment Have Failed?
While it’s not unusual that traditional medical treatment for these types of conditions often fail, there is still hope. Conservative Chiropractic treatment, following proper evaluation to determine the true pain generator, the amount of tissue damage and the underlying cause of the condition, is many times able to provide relief and resolution of the problem many times after other methods have failed. Using a combination approach of Chiropractic Care, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, spinal decompression therapy, cold laser, soft tissue techniques and acupuncture, many find relief from “pinched nerves” where they thought they might just have to “learn to live with the pain”.
Why Chiropractic Care Center?
We help you get your life back. At Chiropractic Care Center, we combine the latest research, specialized and advanced training, highly skilled staff, the latest technology (like Spinal Decompression Therapy and Cold Laser Therapy), and a vast body of clinical experience to provide you with the highest quality of care available.
Right now, while it’s still fresh on your mind, call to schedule your FREE Chiropractic Screening Exam to find out if you’re a candidate for this Break Through Treatment. |