Countless individuals in Illinois have experienced the unbearable pain of a pinched nerve. When a nerve gets pinched, it becomes damaged, preventing the transmission of signals to the brain. This leads to a sensation of numbness and tingling.
Causes of a pinched nerve
Automobile accidents, traumatic injuries, work accidents and construction accidents are among the various causes of a pinched nerve. The pain and numbness associated with a pinched nerve can suddenly or gradually intensify.
Repetitive movements, improper lifting techniques or using certain construction tools can lead to a herniated disc, which exerts pressure on the nerve. Additionally, conditions such as arthritis, bone spurs and obesity can contribute to nerve compression.
Nerve pain can stem from a severe sports injury or something as simple as adopting awkward sitting or standing positions. Carpal tunnel syndrome, a type of pinched nerve, often develops due to the repetitive motions of computer typing.
Pinched nerves and pain
When a nerve becomes compressed, it transmits signals to the brain, resulting in various symptoms such as burning sensations, numbness, tingling or muscle weakness. Individuals experiencing nerve damage often describe feeling pins and needles akin to the sensation when a foot falls asleep. While the most commonly affected areas for pinched nerves are the elbows, back, neck and extremities, a pinched nerve can occur anywhere in the body.
Duration of pinched nerves
The duration of a pinched nerve can vary from a few days to several months, depending on the treatment provided. Typically, a pinched nerve is a temporary condition that tends to improve on its own. However, in certain cases, such as a pinched nerve in the lower back causing sciatica, it can result in long-term conditions. Seeking help from a pain management specialist may be necessary to identify the underlying cause of the pain and receive suitable treatment.
Ignoring a pinched nerve is not advisable. The sooner it is addressed, the higher the likelihood of recovering from the injury.