A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues like bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons apply too much pressure to a nerve. This can happen in various body parts, though it’s often associated with the spine. It causes uncomfortable sensations and discomfort.
Recognizing a Pinched Nerve
Pinched nerves cause specific types of pain and sensory changes. People commonly experience sharp, aching, or burning pain that radiates from the affected area. For example, a pinched nerve in the lower back might cause pain extending down to the foot, known as sciatica. Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling are also common. Muscle weakness in the affected area is another symptom, potentially making movements difficult.
Urgent Care’s Approach to Pinched Nerves
Urgent care centers can assess and manage a pinched nerve. A healthcare provider will evaluate symptoms, conduct a physical examination, and test reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength. They may also perform movements to reproduce or alleviate symptoms.
While X-rays can rule out issues like fractures or spinal canal narrowing, they don’t directly diagnose soft tissue compression. Urgent care focuses on initial pain management.
Providers may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain. Some centers might administer IV medications like Solu-Medrol, Decadron, or Toradol. Urgent care staff also advise on self-care, including rest, applying ice or heat, and modifying activities to avoid aggravating the nerve.
When to Seek Alternative Care
While urgent care can address many pinched nerve symptoms, some situations require immediate emergency room (ER) attention. Seek ER care for sudden, severe weakness, especially if it affects limb movement. Loss of bladder or bowel control is a serious symptom, potentially signaling cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency that can lead to permanent damage if not treated promptly.
Also, go to the ER if pain is sudden and severe, especially after trauma like a car accident, or if symptoms include jaw pain, chest pain, or fever. For persistent symptoms not improving with urgent care, or for chronic pain, follow up with a primary care physician (PCP) or specialist. A PCP can manage ongoing care or refer to specialists like neurologists, orthopedists, or physical therapists.
What Happens After an Urgent Care Visit
After an urgent care visit for a pinched nerve, follow the recommendations for recovery. This involves taking prescribed medications, such as NSAIDs or muscle relaxants, to manage pain and inflammation. Continue self-care measures like resting the affected area, applying ice or heat, and adjusting posture or activities to avoid further irritation.
Mild symptoms often resolve within days or weeks with these measures. If symptoms persist or worsen, the urgent care provider may recommend a follow-up with a primary care physician (PCP). A PCP can coordinate further care, including referrals to physical therapy for targeted exercises or to specialists like a neurologist for diagnostic evaluation or a pain management specialist for advanced interventions like corticosteroid injections.