Common Causes of Pinched Nerves

Jul 7

Have you ever experienced a sharp pain or discomfort in your body, particularly in your neck, back or limbs? If so, you may suffer from a pinched nerve known as radiculopathy. A pinched nerve occurs when there is undue pressure on a nerve in your body, which can cause a range of symptoms, from mild tingling to severe pain and weakness.

There are many potential causes of a pinched nerve, some of which may surprise you. Let’s look at the most common causes of this painful condition.

Poor Posture

If you spend most of your day sitting or standing in the same position, you risk developing a pinched nerve. Poor posture can put undue pressure on your nerves, leading to inflammation and pinching.

Repetitive Motions

You can put undue strain on your nerves if you perform repetitive motions for extended periods, such as typing or lifting weights. This can cause inflammation and swelling, leading to a pinched nerve.

Obesity

Carrying excess weight can contribute to a pinched nerve, especially in the back and hips. The added weight can pressure the nerves in these areas, leading to inflammation and pinching.

Arthritis

If you have arthritis, you are at risk of developing a pinched nerve. The inflammation and swelling associated with arthritis can lead to pinching of the nerves, causing pain and discomfort.

Herniated Discs

A herniated disc occurs when the cushioning between your vertebrae ruptures, causing the disc to push against nearby nerves. This can lead to inflammation and pinching of the nerves.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve in your wrist is compressed. This can cause pain, tingling and weakness in your hand and wrist.

These are just a few of the most common causes of a pinched nerve. If you suspect you have a pinched nerve, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Dr. Sina Rajamand at Battle Born Brain & Spine can diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend treatment options to relieve your pain and discomfort.

What Should I Do for a Pinched Nerve?

In the meantime, there are some things you can do to alleviate your symptoms. Resting the affected area, applying heat or ice and taking over-the-counter pain medication can all help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Additionally, stretching and physical therapy can help strengthen the affected area and reduce the risk of future pinched nerves.

A pinched nerve can be painful and debilitating but often preventable. By maintaining good posture, exercising regularly, avoiding repetitive motions when possible and staying at a healthy weight, you can reduce your risk of developing a pinched nerve.

If you do experience painful symptoms that could be from a pinched nerve, contact Battle Born Brain & Spine in Reno/Carson City to get the help you need so you can get back to feeling your best.