If you’re dealing with unexplained pain, numbness, or tingling in your neck, back, arms, or legs, you may be experiencing a pinched nerve. This is a common source of discomfort, but fortunately, it is fully treatable in most individuals. Getting rest, alternating ice and heat, and taking medication are the usual treatment suggestions, but chiropractic care can also provide relief. This guide offers everything you should know about managing pinched nerves.

What Are Pinched Nerves?

Pinched nerves occur when the long nerves that send signals throughout the body become compressed or trapped by surrounding tissue or bone. When there is pressure on a nerve, it is not able to perform its function, which can lead to decreased or abnormal sensations in the affected area. A pinched nerve can happen in many parts of the body but is most common in the neck, lower back, and upper middle back.

What Are the Causes and Symptoms?

In some cases, spinal discs can lose water over time due to normal wear and tear from aging, which causes the vertebrae to move closer together. This results in bone growths known as bone spurs, which can place pressure on nerves. As a result, pinched nerves tend to be more common in adults aged 50 and over. Other possible causes of pinched nerves include rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, traumatic injuries from automobile accidents or sports, pregnancy, obesity, and repetitive motions like typing or lifting.

Compression compromises the performance of nerves, potentially causing the following symptoms:

• Sharp, burning pain or dull aches
• Tingling, numbness, or a feeling of pins and needles
• Decreased sensation or feeling like parts of the body have “fallen asleep”
• Muscle weakness

How Can Chiropractors Help?

Chiropractic care is focused on achieving and maintaining the proper alignment of the spine to relieve pain and encourage healing. In many cases, pinched nerves are caused by misalignment. The body’s muscle tissue, bones, ligaments, cartilage, or spinal discs can slip out of place and exert pressure on nerves. Realignment by a trained chiropractor can resolve not just your symptoms but the root of the problem, freeing the trapped nerve without the need for invasive surgery.

If you need relief for a persistent pinched nerve, turn to Farrell Chiropractic Clinic in Princeton, IL, for exceptional chiropractic care. They have been serving patients throughout Bureau County and the surrounding areas for over 65 years. These skilled chiropractors offer natural and reliable solutions for headaches, neck pain, back pain, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other conditions that cause bodily pain and discomfort. Learn more about their pain management solutions online. Call (815) 875-4408 to schedule your first appointment.