The pinched nerve will affect the muscles around it. For example, if you have a pinched nerve in your wrist, then your hands and fingers might weaken or your grip might be loose.
It’s common for people to describe a feeling that the area has “fallen asleep. " The tingling sensation is more common in your arms and legs, since nerves travel down these extremities.
For example, if you have a pinched nerve in your neck, then you may notice a sharp pain in this area only or pain that radiates from this area. Sharp pain in your lower back may radiate down to your buttocks and legs. Conversely, pain in your upper back can radiate through your shoulders and even to your arms. Bending, straining, and lifting will make the pain worse.
The numbness could also radiate out from the pinched spot. For example, a pinched nerve in your shoulder may lead to numbness in part of your arm. This might also feel like burning, numbness, or tingling in the area. [5] X Expert Source Joshua Grahlman, PT, DPT, FAFSPhysical Therapist & Entrepreneur Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
Some sleeping positions might take the pressure off the nerve and make it easier to sleep. If the pain goes away in a certain position, then this is another sign of a pinched nerve.
Even if being overweight wasn’t the main cause of the pinched nerve, it can make a pinched nerve worse by putting more pressure on it. Luckily, losing weight usually helps treat a pinched nerve.
Carpel tunnel syndrome specifically causes numbness and tingling sensations in the thumb, middle and index fingers. Women are also at a higher risk for pinched nerves while they’re pregnant. [8] X Research source
If you’re injured or disabled, prolonged bed rest can also cause pinched nerves. You can lower your risk for pinched nerves during repetitive activities by taking regular breaks, moving around, and stretching out to stay flexible.
The best way to lower your risk for pinched nerves if you have arthritis is following your treatment regimen and taking all your prescribed medications to improve your condition.
Bone spurs in your back are a particular cause for pinched nerves around your spinal cord. Osteoarthritis causes bone thickening, which could also trigger pinched nerves.
Also avoid keeping your legs crossed while you sit. This is poor posture as well. Luckily, your posture is correctable. If you think your posture may be the culprit, take steps to improve your posture.
If you do have diabetes, make sure you follow all of your doctor’s recommendations to keep the condition under control. This is the best way to protect your nerves.
Common at-home treatments for a pinched nerve include ice and heat, rest, and NSAID pain relievers. If these don’t alleviate your symptoms, then definitely see your doctor. You should always see your doctor if you have a bad pinching pain that’s accompanied by shooting pain. [13] X Expert Source Joshua Grahlman, PT, DPT, FAFSPhysical Therapist & Entrepreneur Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
Also include relevant information like having a repetitive job or sitting for long periods. These risk factors make pinched nerves more likely. Over time, a pinched nerve may cause swelling, pressure, and scarring, so your doctor may be checking for this. Let your doctor know if you have noticed any of these symptoms.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate images of the inside of your body. Nerve Conduction Study. For this test, a series of electrodes will be placed on your skin to measure the how your nerves respond when a small electrical current passes through them. Electromyography (EMG): For this test, your doctor will need to insert a needle into the muscles where your symptoms are located to test their reaction and determine if there has been any nerve damage. X-ray: This primarily checks for bone spurs or thickening.
In rare occasions, you might need surgery to de-compress the nerve. This is more common with carpel tunnel syndrome, bone spurs, and herniated discs. You may need to make some lifestyle changes like losing weight or exercising more. These changes usually help prevent future pinched nerves.
