What does «pinched nerve» actually mean?
«Trapped nerve» is an everyday term. In medical terms, it usually refers to a irritated or distressed nerve root (Radiculopathy) or a nerve that is irritated by a blockage. Rarely is a nerve really «clamped» like in a vise. More often it is irritated because adjacent tissue needs more space than is available, or because tension and inflammation make it sensitive.
Common triggers include:
- a disc that presses on a nerve root (more about this in the article on Herniated disc)
- worn-out vertebrae that narrow the space for the nerve (see Spinal canal stenosis)
- strenuously tense muscles, for example in the neck, between the shoulder blades or in the groin (for example the Piriformis syndrome)
- a blockage of the joints at the junction of the pelvis and the spine (ISG syndrome)
- Excessive strain, prolonged sitting, unusual strain, or sudden movements
Typical symptoms
A irritated nerve does not show itself in the same way in everyone. Often it is:
- stinging, burning or electric pain that radiates to the arm or leg
- Numbness, «ant crawling» or a furry feeling
- Numbness in a specific area of the skin
- Pain that becomes more severe with certain movements or positions, such as turning the head, coughing, or sitting for long periods of time
- Weakness in hand, arm or leg
Muscular tensions, on the other hand, feel rather dull, pulling and localized. Whether a nerve or a muscle plays a major role can be easily distinguished during a physical examination.
Cramped nerve in the shoulder blade: What often lies behind it?
A pinching in or on the shoulder blade is often described as a pinched nerve. However, the cause is often not directly in the shoulder blade, but somewhat away from it:
- Cervical spine: Irritated nerve roots in the neck can radiate to the shoulder, shoulder blade and arm.
- Thoracic spine and rib joints: Stiff joints between the shoulder blades cause a pointillist, stabbing pain that can become worse with deep breathing.
- Tense muscles: Trigger points in the neck, shoulder, and shoulder blade muscles can cause pain to radiate to the surrounding area. You can find more information about this here. Trigger point therapy and dry needling.
- Shoulder joint: A blockage in the shoulder joint can also cause similar symptoms. More about this in the article Pain in the neck and shoulder.
Trapped nerve in the back
In the lower back, sufferers often describe a pinched nerve when the pain spreads to the buttocks or leg (ischia). This is often caused by a irritated nerve root in the lumbar spine, a problem in the iliac-sacral joint, or a tight buttock muscle. The symptoms often arise after sudden strain, an awkward movement, or prolonged sitting. To learn how to distinguish an acute sciatica from this condition, read our articles. Witch shot: What really helps and Lumbago or sciatica?.
When you should immediately seek medical advice
Most nerve irritations are uncomfortable but not dangerous. However, if you notice the following warning signs, you should not wait:
- Paralysis or significant loss of strength in an arm, hand, or leg
- Numbness in the genital or groin area or problems controlling the bladder or bowel (emergency, please seek medical assistance immediately)
- very severe or rapidly increasing pain, especially after a fall or accident
- Fever along with severe back or neck pain
- Chest pain, tightness of the chest or difficulty breathing, especially with radiating pain in the arms, jaw or back: Call 144 immediately
What you can do yourself
- Staying active: Save yourself a little while, but avoid prolonged bed rest. Light exercise in the pain-free area, such as walks, usually helps more than staying still.
- Change position: Break up long periods of sitting every 30 to 45 minutes for a minute of movement. Try to find out which posture relieves the pain and use that one.
- Heat or cold: Many find warmth soothing during tension. After a recent injury or when swelling occurs, cooling may be more pleasant. Decide based on your feelings.
- No jerky stretching: Do not scratch the painful area and do not let yourself be manipulated by laypeople.
- Adapt workplace: Screen at eye level, rest your arms on the table, get up regularly.
- Painkillers: Discuss the intake and dosage with your doctor, pharmacist or nurse.
How Physiotherapy Helps You
At the beginning, a careful assessment is made: We examine mobility, strength, sensation, and reflexes, and determine whether spinal cord, muscle, or a blockage in the nerve causes the symptoms. Based on this, the treatment is determined:
- Manual therapy and mobilization to release stiff joints and relieve the nerve
- Nerve mobilization, i.e., targeted gliding exercises that make the nerve more mobile again
- Dry needling and trigger point therapy when tense muscles are involved
- Exercises for posture, trunk and shoulder control, so that the symptoms do not return
- Advice on everyday life, the workplace, and gradual increase in workload
With a medical prescription, the basic insurance usually covers the costs of physiotherapy.
How long does it take for a irritated nerve to calm down again?
This cannot be said in a general way. Many complaints improve within a few days to a few weeks. With severe irritation or a blockage, it may take longer. If your pain remains unchanged after about two to three weeks, becomes worse, or you experience sensory disturbances and weakness, you should have it evaluated by a doctor and a physiotherapist.
Frequently asked questions
Does a pinched nerve go away on its own?
Often yes, especially if you remain active and reduce the triggers. If the symptoms persist or continue to worsen, further examination is advisable.
Do I need an MRI?
Not automatically. Imaging is especially helpful for warning signs or when there is no improvement despite treatment. Your doctor or nurse will decide this together with you.
How can I best sleep with a pinched nerve?
Are you looking for a position where the strain eases? Neck and arm pain often improves with a pillow that supports the head in extension of the spine. Back and leg pain is relieved by a pillow between the knees in a side position or under the knees in a back position.
Does stretching help with a pinched nerve?
Gentle movement yes, vigorous stretching on the irritated nerve no. Have exercises shown to you that fit your cause.
When should I go to physical therapy?
If the symptoms persist for more than a few days, radiate to an arm or leg, or restrict your daily activities, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Date in Zürich Wipkingen
Do you have pain that radiates into your arm or leg, or are you unsure whether a nerve is involved? Book an appointment online in our practice at Hönggerstrasse 118 or call us at: 044 585 99 49. This article does not replace medical advice.
