Can a Chiropractor Treat a Pinched Nerve? How?
A pinched nerve doesn’t necessarily sound like a serious condition. After all, pinching someone is a pretty minor form of aggression by most standards. However, pinched nerves are some of the most painful and irritating conditions in existence.
These issues can lead to weakness, decreased sensation, and a variety of other symptoms in the legs and arms. Fortunately, chiropractors are able to help patients with pinched nerves recover and return to their busy lives.
What Exactly is a “Pinched Nerve”?
A pinched nerve is a general term that refers to any issue in which the path of a nerve is impeded or irritated in some way. For instance, a nerve in the neck may be inflamed due to an extremely tight muscle, a small bony growth in a vertebra, or a herniated disc. These same issues also commonly occur in cases of low back pain, resulting in sciatica and similar conditions.
When these nerves are “pinched” patients generally experience radiating symptoms. Case in point, a pinched nerve in the neck will very often result in symptoms in the hands.
What Symptoms are Typical of a Pinched Nerve?
A pinched nerve generally causes the classic symptoms that are characteristic of injuries to the nervous system. Namely, patients with a pinched nerve should expect to experience any or all of the following:
- A burning sensation down the involved limb.
- Tingling and numbness throughout the area innervated by the pinched nerve.
- Weakness in key muscles that receive input from the nerve in question.
Of course, pain is also a common symptom seen with pinched nerves.
How Is a Pinched Nerve Treated?
As you might expect, the most important component of treatment for a pinched nerve is relieving the pressure on the nerve itself. However, this can sometimes be easier said than done.
If the nerve is being pinched by a tight muscle, simply stretching those tight tissues can often relieve the tension in the nerve.
On the other hand, if the nerve is being pinched due to faulty alignment in the spine, a chiropractor may be the best option.
Chiropractic Care for Pinched Nerves
Chiropractors are experts in dealing with pain of all types. Because the spine is involved with all pain processing throughout the body, it needs to be kept in perfect alignment for it to function properly.
Usually, chiropractors will perform treatments known as spinal adjustments. These treatments involve gentle, quick pushes on the spine in order to fix subluxations within the vertebral column.
By regularly receiving chiropractic treatments, you can keep your spine straight and minimize any pain or discomfort caused by pinched nerves.
How to Prevent Pinched Nerves
To be honest, it’s not always possible to completely eliminate the risk of developing pinched nerves. However, you can greatly reduce the risk by following the sage advice outlined below.
- Exercise regularly. Regular exercise is important for all components of health. By frequently performing cardio, completing strengthening exercises, and stretching, you can set yourself up for success and lower your risk of developing pinched nerves.
- Make sure your bed is right for you. Many pinched nerves develop due to poor sleeping posture. Make sure that your mattress and pillows are right for you: not too soft, and not too firm.
- See your chiropractor regularly. Your relationship with your chiropractor should be ongoing. By maintaining a regular chiropractic schedule, you’ll stay ahead of any potential injuries and prevent them from ever progressing into worse issues.
Your Noblesville chiropractor at Anchor Health Chiropractic can help you overcome your pinched nerve injuries today. Book your first appointment now!
