A pinched nerve can absolutely cause a burning sensation. This uncomfortable feeling arises when surrounding tissues, such as bone, cartilage, muscle, or tendon, exert pressure on a nerve, disrupting its normal function. The resulting irritation or inflammation of the nerve fiber often translates into a sharp, burning, or radiating pain that can travel along the nerve’s pathway. The sensation of burning is one of the most recognized symptoms indicating that a nerve is being compressed.
Understanding Neuropathic Pain
The burning sensation from a pinched nerve is a form of neuropathic pain, which is pain caused by a lesion or disease affecting the nervous system. Unlike typical pain that signals tissue injury, neuropathic pain stems from a nervous system malfunction where damaged nerve fibers send incorrect signals to the brain. When a nerve is mechanically compressed, the pressure interferes with the nerve’s ability to transmit electrical signals properly. This disruption forces the nerve to misfire, sending signals that the brain interprets as intense, abnormal sensations like burning, tingling, or an electric shock.
Compression causes the nerve’s structure to become compromised. This disruption can lead to ectopic discharge, where the nerve generates impulses spontaneously. The sustained mechanical pressure and resulting inflammation cause the nerve to become hypersensitive, often leading to allodynia, a condition where a normally non-painful stimulus, like light touch, is felt as pain. Neuropathic pain varies in intensity depending on the severity of the compression and the individual nerve affected.
Where Pinched Nerves Commonly Cause Burning
Burning pain frequently occurs where major nerve roots exit the spine or where peripheral nerves travel through confined anatomical spaces. Lumbar radiculopathy, commonly known as sciatica, is a prime example where compression of a nerve root in the lower back causes a characteristic burning sensation that radiates down the buttock, thigh, and leg. This radiating pain follows the path of the sciatic nerve and can be worsened by prolonged sitting or forceful movements like sneezing or coughing. Similarly, cervical radiculopathy involves nerve compression in the neck, which often produces a sharp, burning pain that travels down the shoulder, arm, and into the hand.
Another common location is the wrist, where compression of the median nerve leads to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, frequently resulting in a burning or tingling sensation in the fingers and hand. Nerve compression is often accompanied by other distinct symptoms. These include paresthesia, numbness, or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the affected nerve. Muscle weakness or a reduced ability to grip or lift is also a frequent sign, as the nerve’s ability to send motor signals to the muscles is impaired.
Seeking Confirmation and Initial Management
If a burning sensation persists for more than a few days, worsens, or is accompanied by noticeable weakness, seeking evaluation from a healthcare provider is the appropriate next step. A medical professional can distinguish the cause, as other conditions can mimic nerve compression symptoms. The diagnostic process typically begins with a physical examination and a detailed review of symptoms, checking for changes in sensation or muscle reflexes.
To confirm a pinched nerve, a provider may order tests like a Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) or Electromyography (EMG), which measure the electrical signals within the nerves and muscles. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or high-resolution ultrasound may also be used to visualize structures—like bone spurs or herniated discs—that might be placing pressure on the nerve.
For initial, temporary relief, simple non-invasive steps can be taken. Rest is the most important first measure, involving avoiding the activities or positions that trigger or worsen the burning pain. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation around the compressed nerve, which may alleviate some discomfort. Making gentle adjustments to posture or using supports, like a brace or splint for wrist issues, can also temporarily relieve pressure on the irritated nerve.