Nerve Impingement

Nerve impingement, commonly referred to as pinched nerve, is a common condition that can affect people of any age. However, what are the signs of a pinched nerve? Can you imagine how it would feel to be pricked by pins and needles? Many emotions can be evoked by a single part of the body being completely numb and without feeling. It can be excruciating to feel sharp or throbbing pain, which is something no one desires. A pinched nerve only becomes concerning if the pressure is left untreated and the symptoms persist for a long time, leading to irreversible nerve damage. It develops when the nerve is too compressed by surrounding tissues, including tendons, muscles, and bones.

What Causes Nerve Impingement?

Age-related wear and tear on the disc and spine is typical. Several 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

A pinched nerve for a short period may not lead to permanent damage. If the pressure is relieved, then nerve function returns to normal. However, chronic pain and permanent nerve damage can occur if pressure continues.

How is Nerve Impingement Diagnosed?

We aim to thoroughly assess the condition, including medical history, signs or symptoms, and a physical examination. If we suspect a pinched nerve, then perform the following tests like:

• Blood test – You may need tests to measure your fasting blood glucose or thyroid levels.
• X-rays – Show how the bones are positioned and narrow, causing the pinched nerve.
• Nerve conduction study – It measures electrical impulses in your nerve signals when a small current passes through the nerve. It helps to find out about damaged nerves.
• Your muscles’ electrical activity during contraction and rest is measured by electromyography (EMG). It helps detect the damage to the nerve that is leading to muscles.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – These provide detailed images that can tell if the soft tissues are causing the nerve compression or if there is damage to the spinal cord.

Following a comprehensive assessment, we start the course of treatment that is most appropriate for the patient.

Find out more about our therapeutic approaches and how they aid in the patient’s recovery. Call (919) 800-0850 to make an appointment with Advanced Pain Consultants, PA right now.