Pinched Nerve Pain “Sciatica”
AKA: Cervical Radiculopathy, Lumbar Radiculopathy, Sciatica.
A pinched spinal nerve, also known as a compressed nerve, occurs when a nerve in the spinal column is subjected to excessive pressure or compression. This pressure can disrupt the normal function of the nerve and lead to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the areas of the body supplied by that nerve.
Symptoms:
Localized Pain: Sharp or aching pain in the affected area of the spine (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar).
Radiating Pain: Pain may radiate to the arms, hands, legs, or feet, depending on the location of the pinched nerve.
Numbness and Tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling, often referred to as "pins and needles," in the areas supplied by the affected nerve.
Radiating Pain: Pain may radiate to the arms, hands, legs, or feet, depending on the location of the pinched nerve.
Numbness and Tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling, often referred to as "pins and needles," in the areas supplied by the affected nerve.
Other Symptoms:
Weakness: Weakness in the muscles controlled by the affected nerve, leading to difficulty in performing certain movements.
Loss of Reflexes: Decreased reflexes in the affected area may occur.
Sensation Changes: Altered sensation in the skin over the areas supplied by the nerve.
Causes:
- Herniated Discs: Bulging or ruptured discs in the spine can press on nearby spinal nerves.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: The natural wear and tear of spinal discs can lead to narrowing of the spinal canal or foramina, putting pressure on nerves.
- Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress spinal nerves.
- Bone Spurs: Bony growths that develop due to arthritis can encroach on nerve spaces.
- Injuries or Trauma: Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can cause structural changes that pinch nerves.
- Poor Posture: Prolonged poor posture can lead to abnormal stress on the spine, contributing to nerve compression.
- Tumors or Cysts: Abnormal growths can press on nerves, leading to symptoms.
Other Conditions
