How Chiropractic Can Help Pinched Nerves

Soreness or aches throughout the body may be due to a pinched nerve, causing considerable discomfort that disrupts everyday routines and makes even minor movements challenging or painful. 

Pinched nerves can occur when the nerve is compressed, which usually happens due to surrounding soft tissues applying pressure on a specific area, leading to nerve irritation.  

Common symptoms of a pinched nerve include:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Shooting pain
• Radiating pain
• Sarp or dull pain
• Stiffness
• Pain in the shoulder or arm 
• Loss of range of motion

Chiropractic treatments are a safe, natural, and effective way to treat pinched nerve pain by healing the soft tissue injury that’s causing it. 

How Pinched Nerves Occur

While some are more prone than others, anyone can experience a pinched nerve, no matter your activity level, age, or lifestyle. 

Common reasons for pinched nerves include:

• Aging or regular wear and tear to the spine can cause injuries that compress nerves
• Arthritis causes inflammation in the joints and puts pressure on surrounding nerves and soft tissues
• A traumatic injury, such as a sports injury or car accident, can lead to a pinched nerve from herniated discs or other imbalances 
• Improper lifting or moving techniques 
• Repetitive motions for extended periods, due to sports or occupation
• Typing and mousing can cause carpal tunnel syndrome, a common nerve irritation in the hand that can be very painful
• Pregnancy or weight gain can put pressure on targeted areas that injure and compress the nerve

You may not be able to avoid some of these conditions or injuries, but there are some ways to reduce your chances of getting a compressed nerve.

Ways to help prevent pinched nerves include:

• Stretch and exercise regularly; consider yoga to heal, balance, and strengthen the body
• Improve your posture and use an ergonomic chair
• Take breaks from repetitive motions
• Ensure you have a correctly set up workstation
• Visit your local chiropractor to ensure the soft tissues and joints are functioning properly 

Chiropractic to Treat Pinched Nerves

Chiropractors understand how the spine and soft tissues are supposed to function and their connectivity and they offer comprehensive treatment plans that encourage a fast recovery. There are a number of non-invasive, proven chiropractic methods that can be effective in treating pinched nerves. 

Common chiropractic solutions for pinched nerves include:

• Chiropractic adjustments align the spine and restore the structure, removing soft tissues or discs that may be adding pressure to the nerve through a gentle, controlled thrust to a targeted area
• Movement therapies heal and strengthen the body so it can function and support the body properly, as they contribute to proper movement patterns and heightened flexibility, reducing the opportunity for nerve compression
• Dry needling involves thin needles placed over affected soft tissues to improve circulation to the injury and heal the tissues quickly
• Massage is an excellent way to reduce inflammation and discomfort by treating affected tissues through manipulation, encouraging restoration and relaxation in body and mind, and reducing muscle tension and pressure on the nerve
• Laser therapy improves blood flow and reduces sensitivity to the area being treated

Chiropractic care for pinched nerves may also include recommendations for exercises and stretches to be completed at home, as well as postural, workstation setup, and movement insight. 

This holistic treatment strategy is designed to help improve the flexibility and range of motion in the affected area, which can alleviate pressure on the affected nerve over time but also often provides immediate relief. 

End Pinched Nerve Pain in Charlotte

Determining the right chiropractic treatment for your pinched nerve is our priority. We never take a one-size-fits-all approach, but find what your body needs for an optimized healing process. 

If you are experiencing symptoms of a pinched nerve, our Charlotte chiropractic clinic would like to meet with you. We’ll find the underlying cause of your condition and develop an appropriate, fast-working, and long-lasting care plan.

Ready to enjoy a comfortable, active lifestyle? Book with us or contact our team to learn more about how we can heal the discomfort your pinched nerve is causing.