Trapped Nerve Pain

Trapped nerve pain can feel different depending on where the compression occurs:

In the Neck (Cervical Spine): You might experience pain that radiates down your shoulder, arm, or into your hand. Some people describe it as an electric shock sensation. Numbness or pins and needles in specific fingers is also common.

In the Lower Back (Lumbar Spine): Pain often travels down the buttock and leg, sometimes all the way to the foot. This is often called sciatica when it follows the path of the sciatic nerve. You might also notice weakness when walking or difficulty with certain movements.

In the Mid-Back (Thoracic Spine): Though less common, trapped nerves here can cause pain that wraps around the ribs or chest area. The pain may worsen with certain movements or positions, and many people find it’s worse at night or first thing in the morning.

Conduct a Thorough Assessment: This includes taking your medical history, discussing
your symptoms, and performing physical and neurological examinations. In some cases, they may refer you for imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans if needed.

Identify the Cause: Understanding what’s causing the nerve compression is essential. Is it related to joint dysfunction, muscle tension, disc problems, or other factors? This helps create an appropriate care plan.

Provide Individualised Care: Chiropractors at Glasgow Spinal Care use a range of techniques that may include spinal adjustments, mobilisation and exercises. The goal is to reduce pressure on the affected nerve and improve spinal function.

Offer Advice and Education: You’ll receive guidance on posture, exercises, and lifestyle
modifications that may help your recovery and prevent future problems.

It’s worth noting that not all trapped nerve conditions are suitable for chiropractic care
alone and in some In some cases, co-management with your GP or referral to other healthcare professionals may be appropriate.

While most trapped nerve problems improve with conservative care, certain symptoms require immediate medical attention:

• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Progressive weakness in the arms or legs
• Numbness in the saddle area (inner thighs and buttocks)
• Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms

These could indicate a more serious condition requiring urgent assessment.

Living with trapped nerve pain can be frustrating and limiting. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, numbness, or tingling that affects your daily activities, it may be worth having an assessment to understand what’s causing your symptoms.

At our Glasgow Chiropractic clinics, we take time to listen to your concerns, conduct thorough examinations, and explain your condition in terms you can understand. We believe informed patients make better decisions about their care.

If you’d like to discuss whether chiropractic care might be suitable for your trapped nerve pain, please get in touch. We’re here to help you get back to doing the things you enjoy.

*Informational purposes only – does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional about your specific condition.