Neck Pain And Pinched Nerves
Could A Pinched Nerve Be Causing Your Neck Pain?
By Jarrett Kruse
Neck pain is only one symptom of a pinched nerve. You may experience twitching, a “pins and needles” feeling, neck pain or numbness, shooting pains, sharp burring pains or any combination of symptoms. Back pain and neck pain symptoms vary according to the nerve affected. Pain involving the sciatic nerve affects the lower extremities, whereas a pinched nerve in the neck can cause upper back nerve pain. Treatment of a pinched nerve generally consists of rest and sometimes immobilizing the affected area. Sometimes, though you may seek a doctor’s care. Treatment for pinched nerve related pain may include medication. Some pinched nerves respond to physical therapy, acupuncture, and other treatment options.
When a pinched nerve occurs, the nerve is “pinched” by an increase in pressure from surrounding tissue—such as a herniated disc or irritated muscles or tendons. Most of the time rest is the recommended treatment, but sometimes that’s not enough. Anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid injections have both proven effective against pain. Some patients report success with physical therapy or acupuncture. On rare occasions, surgery is required to remove the source of pressure, such as a bone spur or herniated disc, on the nerve. Here are a few things to look for when trying to determine whether you are suffering from a pinched nerve:
- Burning, sharp, or shooting pains in the area of the nerve, possibly radiating outward
- Coughing or sneezing if the nerve affected is coming from the spinal cord.
- Tingling or numbness or a “pins and needles’ sensation known as paresthesia
- Twitching or muscle spasm or weakness in the affected area.
- Shooting pains in the extertities
- Frequent feeling that a foot or hand has ‘fallen asleep.’
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