First, let's start with the basics: what is a pinched nerve? 

According to the Mayo Clinic: "A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles or tendons. This pressure can cause pain, tingling, numbness or weakness.

A pinched nerve can occur in many areas throughout the body. For example, a herniated disk in the lower spine may put pressure on a nerve root. This may cause pain that radiates down the back of your leg (sciatica). Likewise, a pinched nerve in your wrist can lead to pain and numbness in your hand and fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome)."

The Mayo Clinic is also kind enough to clarify how we might know if we have a pinched nerve and what may cause the pain:

Symptoms

Pinched nerve signs and symptoms include:

• Numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve
• Sharp, aching or burning pain, which may radiate outward
• Tingling, pins and needles sensations (paresthesia)
• Muscle weakness in the affected area
• Frequent feeling that a foot or hand has "fallen asleep"
• The problems related to a pinched nerve may be worse when you're sleeping.

Causes

A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure (compression) is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues.

In some cases, this tissue might be bone or cartilage, such as in the case of a herniated spinal disk that compresses a nerve root. In other cases, muscle or tendons may cause the condition.

In the case of carpal tunnel syndrome, a variety of tissues may be responsible for compression of the carpal tunnel's median nerve, including swollen tendon sheaths within the tunnel, enlarged bone that narrows the tunnel, or a thickened and degenerated ligament.

A number of conditions may cause tissue to compress a nerve or nerves, including:

• Injury
• Rheumatoid or wrist arthritis
• Stress from repetitive work
• Hobbies or sports activities
• Obesity

What to do about it

See a health care provider if the signs and symptoms of a pinched nerve last for several days and don't respond to self-care measures, such as rest and over-the-counter pain relievers, or if the pain is acute. A chiropractor can help to alleviate pain, numbness, and can likely resolve the original cause of a pinched nerve. With regular chiropractic care, the initial cause of the pinched nerve may be remedied.

If a nerve is pinched for only a short time, there's usually no permanent damage. Once the pressure is relieved, nerve function returns to normal. However, if the pressure continues, chronic pain and permanent nerve damage can occur. Dr. Roger specializes in extremity adjustments, and can help to alleviate the pain from a pinched median nerve.

Prevention

To prevent a pinched nerve, follow some of these handy guidelines:

• Maintain good positioning — don't cross your legs or lie in any one position for a long time.
• Incorporate strength and flexibility exercises into your regular exercise program.
• Limit repetitive activities and take frequent breaks when engaging in these activities.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Regular chiropractic appointments will keep your vertebrae in alignment.
• Call Gulph Mills Chiropractic Center to schedule a complimentary initial assessment to see if chiropractic can help you. (x-rays are included if necessary). Dr. Roger can help you stay pain free! 484-751-5037

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