A pinched nerve, also known as nerve compression or entrapment neuropathy, occurs when surrounding tissues physically squeeze a peripheral nerve or a nerve root branching from the spine. Structures like bone, cartilage, muscle, or tendons exert this pressure, disrupting the nerve’s ability to transmit signals to and from the brain. When nerve function is compromised, it results in abnormal sensations and motor issues in the area the nerve supplies.
Identifying the Specific Symptoms
The most recognizable sign of nerve compression is pain that often radiates away from the site of the pinch. This pain is frequently described as sharp, burning, or aching, and it follows the distinct pathway of the affected nerve. For instance, a compressed nerve in the lower back may cause discomfort that shoots down the buttock and leg, a pattern commonly known as sciatica.
Sensory changes known as paresthesia are also highly indicative of a compressed nerve. This includes the familiar feeling of “pins and needles” or tingling, similar to when a limb “falls asleep.” If the compression is severe, the nerve signal can be completely blocked, leading to numbness or a decrease in sensation in the nerve’s distribution area.
Motor symptoms manifest as muscle weakness or a loss of function in the corresponding muscle group. A pinched nerve affecting the neck’s nerve roots, for example, can result in reduced grip strength or difficulty performing fine motor tasks. Similarly, compression in the lumbar spine can cause weakness in the leg muscles, potentially leading to a foot drop or an altered gait.
The location of the symptoms is often a direct map to the nerve involved, which helps pinpoint the compression source. Symptoms may also intensify with certain movements, such as turning the head or standing for prolonged periods, which temporarily increases the pressure on the nerve.
Common Causes and Affected Areas
Nerve compression frequently arises from musculoskeletal issues that reduce the space available for the nerve. In the spine, a herniated or bulging disc is a common culprit, pushing outward and pressing against a nearby nerve root. Age-related degenerative changes, such as osteoarthritis, can also cause bone spurs to form, which stiffen the spine and narrow the nerve root openings, leading to compression.
Outside of the spine, nerves can be pinched by surrounding non-bony tissues, a mechanism known as nerve entrapment. Repetitive motions, often seen in specific jobs or hobbies, can cause localized inflammation and swelling that squeezes a peripheral nerve. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, where the median nerve is compressed at the wrist due to swelling of the surrounding tendons, is a prime example.
The most frequent locations for a pinched nerve are the cervical spine (neck) and the lumbar spine (lower back), leading to cervical or lumbar radiculopathy. Another common area is the elbow, where the ulnar nerve can become compressed, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and pinky fingers. Injuries, obesity, and pregnancy can also increase the risk due to added weight or general tissue swelling.
When to Seek Professional Confirmation and Care
While many mild cases of nerve compression resolve with rest and conservative home care, persistent or worsening symptoms require professional evaluation. Seek medical attention if the pain lasts for more than a few days, is severe, or is not responding to over-the-counter pain relievers. Progressive numbness or muscle weakness that interferes with daily activities also signals the need for a diagnosis to prevent lasting nerve damage.
Certain symptoms are urgent red flags and warrant immediate medical care. These include the sudden onset of profound weakness in a limb or the sudden loss of bladder or bowel control. These serious signs may indicate a more extensive spinal cord issue requiring prompt intervention.
A medical professional will conduct a physical and neurological examination to check reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength. To confirm the diagnosis and identify the exact cause, they may order imaging tests or specialized electrical tests.
Diagnostic Tests
To assess the extent of the damage, common diagnostic tools include:
- X-rays to visualize bone changes.
- MRI to better see soft tissues, such as discs and tendons.
- Nerve conduction studies (NCS) to measure electrical signals in the nerve.
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess the extent of muscle damage.