At Thiele Chiropractic, which serves residents of Manchester, Glastonbury, Vernon and East Hartford, Connecticut, Dr. Steven Thiele has helped many patients who suffered from pinched nerves. Regarded by lots of his patients as one of the leading chiropractors in the region, Dr. Thiele is honored to be recommended by many of the people he has treated.
Pinched Nerve Q & A
What are pinched nerves?
Pinched nerves are nerves that are being pressured, or pinched, by surrounding muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, or bones. Too much pressure can interfere with nerves’ normal function. Pinched nerves can develop in several places, but they’re often found along the spine.
What symptoms do pinched nerves cause?
Pinched nerves that can’t function the way they normally do can create a few different symptoms, including the following:
- numbness
- pain, including both aching and sharp pain
- tingling
- muscle weakness
These symptoms manifest in the area of the body that the nerve goes to, which may be close to or away from where the nerve is pinched. For example, a pinched nerve in the wrist may cause pain in that wrist or hand. A pinched nerve in the spine, however, can cause tingling sensations all along the leg that it goes to.
What causes pinched nerves?
Pinched nerves can be caused by a number of different things. Some common causes are:
- Physical injuries, such as from playing sports or being in an auto accident
- Poor posture, including when sitting or standing
- Rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disorder
- Repetitive motions, such as typing
- Obesity, which can exacerbate many medical issues
How are pinched nerves treated?
Most of the time, pinched nerves can be effectively treated with conservative, non-invasive treatments. Sometimes, rest is all that a person needs. Other times, chiropractic adjustments are able to alleviate a patient’s symptoms. Only severe cases require medication or surgery.
Who treats pinched nerves?
Patients who have pinched nerves can see several different healthcare providers. Chiropractors are highly qualified to diagnose pinched nerves and recommend treatment, and they perform many non-invasive treatments. Physical therapists also offer non-invasive treatment. Medical doctors are also able to diagnose and treat pinched nerves. They can prescribe medication or perform surgery if it’s necessary to do so.