A pinched nerve, medically known as nerve compression or nerve entrapment, occurs when surrounding tissues apply excessive pressure to a nerve. This compression can happen anywhere in the body, often involving nerve roots exiting the spine or peripheral nerves passing through narrow anatomical spaces. Tissues such as bone, cartilage, muscle, or tendon can press against the nerve, disrupting its normal function. This physical pressure forces the nerve to send abnormal signals, which the brain interprets as various uncomfortable sensations, including burning.
The Physiology Behind Burning Pain
The burning sensation originates from a disruption in how nerve fibers transmit information to the central nervous system. When a nerve is compressed, the physical pressure irritates the delicate nerve fibers, causing them to fire erratically or excessively. This abnormal signaling is known as neuropathic pain, which arises from a misfiring of sensory signals rather than typical protective pain (nociceptive pain).
The specific feeling of burning is often attributed to the activation of C-fibers. These small-diameter sensory fibers are responsible for transmitting slow, dull, aching, and burning pain sensations. The mechanical pressure triggers these nerve endings to generate electrical impulses, which the brain perceives as painful heat or burning. This continuous irritation creates an ongoing, stimulus-independent pain characteristic of nerve entrapment.
Where Pinched Nerves Commonly Cause Burning
Nerve compression leading to burning can occur in various locations, with the spinal nerve roots and major peripheral nerves being the most frequent sites.
Sciatica (Lumbar Radiculopathy)
A common example is sciatica, or lumbar radiculopathy, which involves compression of a nerve root in the lower back, often by a herniated disc. This causes a sharp or burning pain that radiates down the buttock and along the back of the leg, sometimes traveling all the way to the foot.
Cervical Radiculopathy
In the neck, cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine is pinched. This condition leads to burning, tingling, or aching pain that extends from the neck and shoulder down into the arm and hand.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Another common location is the wrist, where Carpal Tunnel Syndrome involves the compression of the median nerve. This entrapment typically causes a burning or pins-and-needles sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome involves the ulnar nerve at the elbow. When this nerve is compressed, individuals often experience a burning feeling or tingling in the ring and little fingers.
Identifying and Addressing the Compression
Diagnosis
Identifying the cause of nerve compression begins with a detailed physical examination and a review of the patient’s symptoms. A healthcare provider will test reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation to pinpoint the affected nerve and the extent of the damage. Imaging studies are often utilized to visualize the source of the pressure:
- X-rays check for bone spurs or arthritis.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans view soft tissues like herniated discs.
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) confirm nerve damage.
- Electromyography (EMG) assesses the severity of nerve and muscle involvement.
Conservative Treatment
Initial management focuses on conservative, non-invasive measures designed to reduce pressure and inflammation. Rest is commonly recommended for the affected area, often using a splint or brace to immobilize the limb. Posture correction, activity modification, and over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help minimize ongoing compression and reduce inflammation.
When to Seek Further Care
If symptoms persist or are severe, physical therapy may be prescribed to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility. While many pinched nerves resolve with conservative treatments, seek professional medical attention if the burning pain does not improve within a few days or weeks. Immediate consultation is necessary if a patient experiences:
- Sudden or progressive muscle weakness.
- Loss of sensation.
- Loss of bowel control.
- Loss of bladder control.