Pinched Nerve
Serving the South Florida and Orlando Areas
Dr. Andreas C. Tomac, MD, PhD, FAANS is a distinguished neurosurgeon specializing in diagnosing and treating a Pinched Nerve.
What is a Pinched Nerve?
Suffering from a pinched nerve? A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, leading to discomfort, tingling, or numbness. Whether caused by poor posture, injury, or underlying conditions like herniated discs, understanding the symptoms and potential complications is crucial. Explore comprehensive information on pinched nerves, their causes, and available treatments. Dr. Tomac, a distinguished neurosurgeon, provides expert insights to guide you through understanding and addressing pinched nerves, ensuring informed decisions about your nerve health. Trust in-depth knowledge and professional guidance to navigate the complexities of pinched nerves and find the right solutions for you.
Who can a Pinched Nerve affect?
A pinched nerve can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and its occurrence is not limited to a specific demographic. Various factors contribute to the development of pinched nerves, including age-related changes, occupational activities, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions. Older adults may be more susceptible due to natural degenerative changes in the spine, such as herniated discs or the formation of bone spurs. However, individuals engaging in repetitive motions or maintaining poor posture, regardless of age, may also experience nerve compression. Athletes, office workers, and those with physically demanding occupations are among the diverse groups that can be affected. Additionally, certain health conditions like arthritis or injuries resulting from accidents can contribute to pinched nerves.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of a pinched nerve can vary depending on the location of the affected nerve and the extent of compression. Common symptoms include:
- Pain: Persistent or sharp pain in the affected area is a hallmark symptom of a pinched nerve. The pain may radiate along the path of the nerve.
- Numbness and Tingling: Individuals may experience sensations of numbness or tingling, often described as “pins and needles” or a feeling of “electrical shocks.”
- Weakness: Muscle weakness may occur in the area served by the affected nerve. This can impact coordination and strength.
- Burning Sensation: Some individuals may report a burning sensation in the affected region.
- Radiating Pain: If the pinched nerve is in the spine, the pain may radiate to other areas of the body, a common example being sciatic nerve pain radiating down the leg.
- Increased Symptoms with Movement: Symptoms may worsen during certain movements or activities that further compress the nerve.
- Loss of Reflexes: In severe cases, there may be a loss of reflexes in the affected area.
It’s important to note that not everyone with a pinched nerve experiences the same set of symptoms, and the severity can vary.
Treating Pinched Nerves
How are Pinched Nerves diagnosed?
Dr. Tomac typically begins by gathering a detailed medical history, exploring information about the onset, duration, and characteristics of symptoms, as well as any relevant medical conditions or injuries. A thorough physical examination follows, focusing on assessing reflexes, muscle strength, and areas of tenderness. Dr. Tomac may employ imaging studies such as X-rays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or Computed Tomography (CT) scans to visualize the affected area and identify the cause of nerve compression, such as herniated discs or structural abnormalities. Additionally, nerve conduction studies (Electromyography – EMG) may be conducted to assess nerve function. Dr. Tomac’s expertise in neurosurgery allows for a comprehensive evaluation, enabling accurate diagnosis and the development of a tailored treatment plan to address the specific circumstances of the pinched nerve.
What treatments are available?
The treatment options for a pinched nerve depend on the underlying cause, the severity of symptoms, and the specific nerve affected. A neurosurgeon like Dr. Tomac can provide expertise in both non-surgical and surgical interventions. Common treatment approaches include:
Conservative Treatments:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Giving the affected nerve time to heal by avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and alleviate pressure on the nerve.
- Pain Management Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage pain and inflammation.
Interventional Procedures:
- Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- Nerve Block Injections: Local anesthetic injections to block pain signals from the affected nerve.
Surgical Options:
- Discectomy: Surgical removal of herniated disc material pressing on a nerve.
- Foraminotomy: Widening of the bony opening (foramen) where nerves exit the spinal canal.
- Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebral bone (lamina) to relieve pressure on nerves.
Dr. Tomac can assess the specific case, discuss treatment options, and recommend the most appropriate course of action based on the cause and severity of symptoms. Surgical intervention is typically considered when conservative measures are ineffective, and there is persistent or worsening neurological involvement.