Do you deal with neck pain, numbness, weakness, and headaches? If so, you might have a pinched nerve in your neck! This unpleasant condition can be downright debilitating in some cases. In this blog post, learn more about pinched neck nerves, how they can occur, and how you may be able to find relief.
Symptoms
Your nerves have to travel through some pretty tight spaces. Unfortunately, in some cases, a nerve can actually become compressed by surrounding tissues, such as the muscle. This condition, known as a pinched nerve, can cause a range of symptoms:
- Pain: This sharp or burning pain may radiate from the neck down into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
- Numbness: A sensation of numbness or tingling may occur in the affected areas, often described as “pins and needles.”
- Weakness: Muscle weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand is common with a pinched nerve. This weakness can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
- Reduced range of motion: You may notice stiffness and difficulty as you move your neck or head.
- Headaches: Occasional headaches may occur, particularly at the base of the skull.
How It Can Happen
A pinched nerve may result from several factors, such as:
- Herniated discs: When the discs between the vertebrae bulge or rupture, they can press against the nerves.
- Bone spurs: Overgrowth of bones can narrow the spaces where nerves travel, leading to compression.
- Muscle strain: Tight or strained muscles can press on nerves, causing pain and discomfort.
- Injury: Trauma from accidents or falls can damage the neck structures, leading to nerve compression.
- Posture: Poor posture, such as prolonged sitting or sleeping in awkward positions, can contribute to nerve impingement.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk
Treatments are available to alleviate the pain of pinched nerves, but, of course, it would be better to reduce your risk in the first place! Here are some helpful tips:
- Practice good posture: Ensure that your workstation is ergonomically set up, and avoid slouching while sitting or standing. You should also make sure you use a supportive pillow when you sleep.
- Exercise regularly: Engage in exercises that strengthen the neck and back muscles, promoting flexibility and stability.
- Take frequent breaks: If your job involves repetitive neck movements or prolonged sitting, take regular breaks to stretch and move around.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Keep your weight within a healthy range to reduce the strain on your spine and neck muscles.
- Manage stress: Implement stress management techniques to reduce muscle tension in your neck and throughout your body.
Finding Relief from a Pinched Nerve
Despite your best efforts at prevention, you may still develop a pinched nerve in your neck. If that happens, the issue may resolve on its own with home care. However, if the pain is severe and ongoing, you may need to visit a doctor for professional treatment. Hopefully, you will soon find relief!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Paul Tortland is an experienced Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. He offers treatments for a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including pinched nerves. For example, he often performs nerve hydrodissection. If you are struggling with symptoms of a pinched nerve, our team invites you to visit us for a consultation. Contact Valley Sports Physicians & Orthopedic Medicine in Glastonbury at 860-430-9690.