Bridgeport
If you have a pinched nerve, also called radiculopathy, it means a nerve is being irritated by surrounding tissues like muscles, tendons, bones, or cartilage. This disrupts normal nerve function and causes symptoms ranging from numbness and muscle weakness in the affected area to sharp, aching, and burning sensations.
One may need to receive steroid injections, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, or surgical intervention to address the issue. If left untreated, a pinched nerve can worsen and lead to long-term complications. Our team of Bridgeport, CT pinched nerve specialists at CT Spine & Orthopedic can help evaluate your medical records to determine the best course of treatment for your pinched nerves.
Pinched nerves can develop due to various factors. One common cause is repetitive movement or activities that overuse specific muscles or tendons and put undue pressure on the adjacent nerves. This often culminates in nerve inflammation and compression.
Pinched nerves can also be brought on by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, arthritis, and bone spurs that narrow the spaces around nerves. A herniated disc, for instance, occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc protrudes through the outer layer and puts pressure on nearby nerves. Also, a narrowing of the spinal canal in spinal stenosis can compress the nerves passing through it.
Staying physically active to keep joints mobile and maintaining a healthy weight to promote spine flexibility and strengthen the core muscles may help. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms of a pinched nerve discussed below, see a spinal specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Recognizing the sign of a pinched nerve is pivotal for early intervention. While symptoms vary based on the compression location and severity, most sufferers experience numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and a burning sensation.
Radiating pain, such as sciatic nerve pain or lumbar radiculopathy, is also a common symptom. Difficulty moving the affected area may also indicate potential nerve dysfunction, highlighting the importance of timely intervention.
When patients experience symptoms suggestive of a pinched nerve, an evaluation by a specialist is necessary. The diagnostic process may involve a detailed medical history, a physical examination, and imaging tests, like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. These diagnostic tools help pinpoint the exact location of the pinched nerve and the extent of compression. Then, personalized treatment recommendations can be made.
The treatment approach for a pinched nerve seeks to relieve pain, minimize inflammation, and promote nerve healing. Non-surgical therapies, including rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory drugs, are often the initial treatment approach. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to deal with swelling and provide pain relief.
Minimally invasive surgical options are recommended when conservative treatments fail. These procedures relieve pressure on the compressed nerve by removing or decreasing the source of compression through small incisions and specialized tools to alleviate pain, improve nerve function, and increase mobility for the patient.
This procedure involves using a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope, equipped with a camera and specialized instruments. The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts the endoscope into the affected area, allowing them to visualize the compressed nerve and surrounding structures on a monitor. They then address the source of compression, such as a herniated disc or bone spur, by removing or trimming the problematic tissue.
This surgical procedure treats herniated discs that cause pinched nerves in the spine. During a microdiscectomy, a small incision is made over the affected disc where a microscope provides a clear view of the disc or nerve. The surgeon then carefully extracts the portion of the herniated disc pressing on the nerve to relieve the compression and alleviate pain, tingling, and numbness associated with the pinched nerve.
Also known as decompression surgery, a laminectomy removes a portion of the vertebra’s bony arch to create more space for the compressed nerve. This procedure is normally performed to address spinal stenosis, where the spinal canal narrows and puts pressure on the nerves. Removing the lamina relieves pressure on the affected nerve, effectively reducing pain and mitigating damage to surrounding tissues.
The decision to undergo one of these procedures should be made with the help of an orthopedist or neurologist who can help you determine the best treatment.
When a pinched nerve goes untreated, it can lead to sudden or slow-developing burns at the slightest movement, chronic pain, and even permanent nerve damage. Ignoring the issue may also decrease function and mobility in the affected area. While physical therapy, sedatives, and muscle relaxants sometimes help with short-term pain relief, you may need more advanced treatments.
Your best chance of avoiding the long-term effects of pinched nerves is to address their root cause. Nerve specialists at CT Spine & Orthopedic in Bridgeport, CT prioritize minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and improved treatment outcomes. Our Concierge Team can also help streamline your treatments. Call us at (866) 553-0612 or fill out our online contact form to book an appointment today.
