Pinched Nerve: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Comprehensive Care at Medical Grade Physiotherapy & Wellness

A pinched nerve occurs when excessive pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as muscles, tendons, bones, or discs. This compression can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the path of the affected nerve. Pinched nerves can occur anywhere in the body, but are most common in the neck (cervical spine), lower back (lumbar spine), and shoulders.

Common Causes of a Pinched Nerve

  • Herniated or bulging discs: Discs pressing against spinal nerves are a frequent cause of neck or lower back nerve pain.

  • Bone spurs: Extra bone growth from arthritis can compress nearby nerves.

  • Muscle tightness or spasms: Overactive muscles can pinch a nerve, especially in the neck, shoulder, or hip region.

  • Poor posture: Slouched sitting, forward head posture, or repetitive strain can contribute to nerve compression.

  • Injury or trauma: Sudden accidents, falls, or sports injuries can irritate or compress nerves.

  • Inflammation: Conditions like arthritis or tendonitis can create pressure on surrounding nerves.

Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve

Symptoms vary depending on the nerve affected but often include:

  • Sharp, burning, or radiating pain

  • Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation

  • Numbness or reduced sensation

  • Muscle weakness

  • Pain that worsens with movement or specific positions

  • Difficulty performing daily activities

For example, a pinched cervical nerve may cause pain radiating into the arm, while a lumbar nerve compression can radiate into the leg (sciatica).

How We Treat Pinched Nerves

At Medical Grade Physiotherapy & Wellness, we take a multidisciplinary approach to treat pinched nerves, addressing both symptoms and the underlying cause. Our goal is to relieve pressure on the nerve, reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence.

Physiotherapy

Our physiotherapists focus on movement correction, strength, and nerve mobility:

  • Targeted stretching and mobility exercises to relieve pressure on the nerve

  • Strengthening exercises for supporting muscles in the neck, back, core, or extremities

  • Postural and ergonomic education to prevent further nerve irritation

  • Nerve gliding techniques to improve nerve movement and reduce irritation

  • Pain-relieving modalities such as heat, cold, or gentle manual therapy

Physiotherapy helps restore function, improve strength, and reduce long-term nerve compression.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care addresses joint alignment and spinal mechanics, which can significantly reduce nerve pressure:

  • Spinal adjustments to restore proper vertebral alignment

  • Joint mobilizations to improve movement

  • Soft tissue therapy for tight muscles compressing the nerve

  • Postural assessment and correction for long-term relief

Chiropractic care is especially effective for nerve compression in the neck, upper back, or lumbar spine.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can reduce muscle tension and inflammation that contribute to nerve compression:

  • Deep tissue release for tight muscles

  • Trigger point therapy to relieve localized pain

  • Myofascial release to improve circulation and mobility

  • Relaxation techniques to decrease overall muscle guarding

Massage complements physiotherapy and chiropractic care, speeding recovery and improving comfort.

Why Choose Medical Grade Physiotherapy & Wellness?

We provide personalized, evidence-based care for pinched nerves. We assess your posture, movement patterns, strength, and daily activities to determine the root cause of nerve compression. Our multidisciplinary team creates a customized treatment plan that combines physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy for faster recovery, long-term relief, and prevention of future nerve irritation.

Get Relief From Pinched Nerves Today

If you are experiencing numbness, tingling, shooting pain, or weakness, contact Medical Grade Physiotherapy & Wellness. Our team will provide a thorough assessment and guide you through a targeted, effective plan to restore nerve health and improve your daily function.