A pinched nerve, or nerve compression, occurs when surrounding tissues exert pressure on a nerve. This pressure can come from bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, disrupting its function. While nerve compression can happen in many areas of the body, it frequently affects the neck and shoulder region due to its complex anatomy and extensive range of motion. When a nerve in the shoulder is compressed, it can cause uncomfortable sensations.
The Distinct Sensations of a Pinched Nerve
A pinched nerve in the shoulder can cause several distinct sensations. These include sharp, shooting pain, often sudden and intense, which may feel stabbing and occur with specific movements. A burning feeling, which can be searing and persistent, is another symptom. This discomfort can arise from inflammation around the nerve.
Tingling, often described as “pins and needles,” is a frequent symptom. This indicates nerve signal interference. Numbness, a loss of sensation, may also occur, making parts of the shoulder, arm, or hand feel unresponsive to touch.
Weakness is another characteristic sensation, involving difficulty moving the arm, hand, or fingers. This muscle weakness is noticeable when lifting objects or performing fine motor tasks. A persistent aching or dull pain, less intense than sharp pain but constant, can also be present.
How Symptoms Travel and Change
Sensations from a pinched nerve in the shoulder often extend beyond the immediate site of compression. Pain, tingling, or numbness frequently radiates from the shoulder or neck, traveling down the arm, into the hand, and sometimes even into specific fingers. This pattern of radiation follows the path of the affected nerve. For instance, a pinched nerve in the neck can cause pain that radiates down the arm.
Certain movements, positions, or activities can intensify symptoms. Turning the head, lifting the arm, or sleeping in particular postures may worsen symptoms. Repetitive hand, wrist, or shoulder movements can also increase symptoms or exacerbate existing ones. Conversely, resting the affected area or changing positions might temporarily alleviate symptoms.
The intensity of symptoms can also fluctuate throughout the day or night. Some individuals might find their pain worsens during sleep. These sensations can vary from mild and intermittent to severe and constant, depending on the degree of nerve compression and inflammation.
Accompanying Signs and When to Seek Care
Beyond the direct sensations, a pinched nerve in the shoulder can present with other physical indicators. Prolonged nerve compression may lead to actual muscle weakness, making it difficult to perform daily tasks. In more severe or chronic instances, visible muscle wasting, known as atrophy, can occur in the affected area. A medical professional might also check for diminished reflexes, as these can be affected by nerve damage.
Coordination issues, such as difficulty with fine motor skills, might also emerge. This can manifest as problems with tasks like writing or buttoning clothes. While many cases of pinched nerves improve with rest and self-care, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention.
It is important to seek care if symptoms are severe, do not improve with rest, or persist for more than a week. Progressive weakness or numbness, especially if it significantly interferes with daily activities or sleep, requires medical evaluation. Although less common with shoulder issues, any loss of bladder or bowel control is a critical neurological sign that requires immediate medical attention.