Pinched nerves, also known as cervical radiculopathy, regularly affect nearly 100,000 individuals nationwide. The majority of affected individuals are between 50 and 60 years of age, though pinched nerves can affect men and women of any age. Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can be exceedingly difficult to manage; however, the seasoned physicians at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches offer conservative, noninvasive therapy to minimize (and potentially cure) the vast majority of physical symptoms. Pinched nerves occur when a nerve root gets pinched by bone marrow or a herniated disc; a great deal of pressure is applied to surrounding tissue, and the functioning of the nerve is disrupted. This disruption can lead to intense pain, numbness, tingling, and muscular weakness. Pinched nerves can occur at numerous sites within the body, such as the neck, leg, back, or wrist. While most cases of cervical radiculopathy are resolved on their own within several weeks, severe cases may require professional intervention.
Symptoms of Pinched Nerves
Symptoms of pinched nerves may include:
- Severe pain, which may radiate outwards
- Pins and needles (paresthesia), or similar tingling sensations
- Decreased sensation in the area near the nerve
- Numbness
- Muscle weakness in the surrounding area
- Feeling as if limbs have ‘fallen asleep’
- Unusual pain following an operation
- Sharp pain activated by specific movements
As previously mentioned, many cases of cervical radiculopathy will resolve on their own. If you begin to notice any of the above-listed symptoms, try over-the-counter pain medications and an increased amount of rest. If you find that your condition is not improving after several days of relaxation and home remedies, you may need to seek professional assistance. Pinched nerves can be extremely painful, and will often severely inhibit your day-to-day life. Because of this, you may want to seek professional care regardless.
Treatment for Pinched Nerves
There are several existing treatment options for those suffering from a pinched nerve. When it comes to therapeutic treatment, there are two main goals: to alleviate pain, and to decrease the risk of re-injury. Some of the treatment methods we employ include:
- Physical therapy (strengthening exercises, posture instruction, range-of-motion exercises, operational training)
- Epidural steroid injections
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and other anti-inflammatory medications)
- The utilization of pain-alleviating equipment, such as a cervical collar or cervical pillow
If these conservative treatment methods do not prove effective, surgery may be a necessary next step. This specific type of surgery will vary greatly depending on the location of the pinched nerve. In some instances, surgery may entail removing part of a herniated disc within the spine, or removing bone spurs. In the case of a pinched nerve within the wrist, the carpal tunnel may need to be severed.
How Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches Works to Heal Pinched Nerves
Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches is extremely well-versed in all potential treatment options, ranging from physical therapy to minor surgical procedures. If you are suffering from what you believe to be a pinched nerve, please call us today to set up an initial consultation. We will help you to determine the most appropriate course of treatment. If your specific case of cervical radiculopathy is likely to resolve on its own within a week, we will help in developing a preventative plan geared towards avoiding re-injury. If your case does require more intensive treatment, we will help guide you in taking the next steps.
If you are suffering from pinched nerves, we can help. Call (561) 434-7577 and let the caring staff at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches get you on the path to healing.
