Pinched Nerve in the Neck

Experiencing a sharp, pinching sensation in your neck after delivering a powerful overhand in tennis or engaging in activities like painting or lifting? This discomfort could be indicative of a pinched nerve, requiring proper diagnosis and treatment for relief. The pain management experts at Pro Spine & Pain are ready to address your pain associated with a pinched nerve in the neck. Schedule an appointment today.

A pinched nerve in the neck may stem from overextension during activities such as golf or jobs involving lifting above shoulder level. This condition, clinically known as cervical radiculopathy, arises when nerves branching from the spinal cord in the neck are compressed or irritated. Various sports and occupational situations can contribute to its development.

Additionally, wear and tear injuries that naturally occur in the spine with aging contribute to the onset of this radiating pain. Unlike sudden sports or work injuries, a pinched nerve from wear and tear tends to manifest gradually, presenting as persistent, nagging pain. Our pain management specialists often diagnose arthritis as a potential cause for this type of condition.

Causes of Pinched Neck Nerve

Injuries sustained during sports or work activities can often lead to a herniated disc. The intervertebral discs serve as shock absorbers, providing cushioning to your spine during movements like walking or running. These discs consist of a robust outer ring safeguarding a softer gel-like center. In the event of compression from an injury or gradual height loss due to aging-induced stiffening of the outer shell, the gel may leak or bulge against the outer lining.

As the disc undergoes stiffening or compression, the vertebrae move closer together, causing friction against each other and the adjacent nerves. In an attempt to compensate for the lost disc material, the body initiates increased bone production. However, this response leads to the formation of bone spurs, rendering the spine less flexible overall and simultaneously pinching the surrounding nerves.

A condition called spinal stenosis can also cause this problem, as the space inside the vertebrae is too small to accommodate the spinal cord properly.

Symptoms of Nerve Impingement in the Neck

Pain from a pinched nerve in the neck typically initiates in the neck but then frequently extends down into the arm.

Some additional symptoms are:

• Sharp, burning sensations, particularly noticeable during actions like turning your head or elongating your neck.
• Muscle weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand.
• Numbness or a decrease in sensation.
• Pins and needles or tingling sensations, frequently experienced in the hand or fingers.

Risk Factors for a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

Numerous occupational and sports activities can contribute to or exacerbate the strain on nerves, with certain individuals being particularly vulnerable.

The following activities commonly trigger pressure on the nerve:

• Playing tennis
• Playing basketball
• Painting
• Golfing
• Certain employment like construction work, store work like stocking shelves, or working as a hairstylist or dental hygienist
• Being involved in an automobile accident, especially if struck from behind
• Working or playing with children
• Working with the arms and hands at or above chest level or reaching above the head often

Neglecting the symptoms and discomfort associated with a pinched nerve can result in long-term or permanent nerve damage. A neck injury might lead to permanent loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or a chronic pain condition. It can also result in restricted mobility in the neck or arms. Safeguard against permanent disability by seeking prompt treatment for a pinched nerve from a respected and knowledgeable expert at Pro Spine & Pain.

How to Treat a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

The majority of individuals seeking pinched nerve in neck treatment will experience improvement over time through proper self-care and adherence to recommended lifting techniques provided by their doctor. Should the problem recur, or if significant improvement is not achieved, specified movement and home treatments can be beneficial. However, if pain persists for weeks or months, even with diligent home care, your doctor may suggest more proactive pinched nerve treatment for your neck.

Some home treatment options include the following:

• Rest and avoidance of activities that trigger symptoms.
• Ice packs to alleviate pain.
• Heating pads or warm compresses to relax tight muscles.
• Over-the-counter pain medication for relief.
• Controlled arm and neck movement to maintain flexibility without exacerbating the problem.

Prescribed interventions by your doctor may include:

• Stronger pain relief for severe discomfort.
• Narcotics if deemed necessary for pain management, although this would be rare.
• Muscle relaxants to alleviate nerve compression.
• Short-term oral corticosteroids to reduce swelling.
• Steroid injections to reduce swelling and provide pain relief.
• Use of a collar to support the cervical spine, facilitating muscle relaxation and limiting neck movement.
• Physical therapy and therapeutic massage, enhancing flexibility, improving range of motion, and strengthening neck muscles.

Other Treatment for a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

If your symptoms persist even after undergoing conservative treatments, your pain management specialist at Pro Spine & Pain may recommend further tests and treatment. Common investigations include electromyography (EMG), MRI scan, or CT scan to determine the root cause. In chronic or severe cases, surgical interventions may be recommended. These procedures could involve the removal of the compromised disc or bone spurs. Another procedure is fusing the compromised vertebrae to enhance stability and achieve proper alignment. Fusion restricts the movement of a degenerated section of your spine. To support this, your doctor might insert a spacer or cage in place of the removed disc and graft bone to the area for added reinforcement.

The primary objective of these treatments is to alleviate pressure on the affected nerve, whether by building muscle, eliminating spurs, or replacing damaged discs. Our doctors are dedicated to identifying the most effective methods to provide relief from your neck pain. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation at the Pro Spine & Pain pain management clinic today .