Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve in the neck) affects around 85 out of 100,000 people. It can cause pain and weakness because of nerve compression. Over half of cervical radiculopathy cases concern the C7 nerve root.
So, what is a pinched nerve in the neck, and how do you know if you have one? Read on to learn more about the signs and symptoms of a pinched nerve in the neck.
Table of Contents
What is a Pinched Nerve in the Neck?
A pinched nerve in the neck happens when a nerve gets compressed, inflamed, or irritated where it moves away from the spinal cord.
There are two main causes of a pinched nerve in the neck.
- Degenerative changes in the aging spine (cervical spondylosis)
- A herniated disc
Cervical Spondylosis
Most pinched nerves are caused by degenerative changes to the spine. These cases result from wear and tear on the cervical spine (neck). As you age, the disks in your spine become stiffer and lose height. It causes the collapse of disk spaces in the spine.
When this happens, the vertebrae move closer together, and your body forms more bone around the disks for strength. As this bone forms, the openings where the nerves exit the spinal column narrows. It causes the nerves to pinch in these openings.
Herniated Discs
Herniated discs occur when the outer layer of the vertebrae weakens and cracks. It allows the jelly-like substance inside the vertebrae to push through the crack. This leaked material can press on the spinal nerves, causing a pinched nerve.
Herniated discs are most common in people over 50 years old. Other things that can contribute to a herniated disc include:
- Repetitive neck motions
- Lack of regular exercise
- Poor posture
- Incorrect lifting or twisting
- Neck injury
Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve
The nerves in your neck attach to the shoulders, arms, chest, and upper back. The pain of a pinched nerve often starts at the neck and moves down to the area controlled by the pinched nerve. A pinched nerve will often affect only one side of your body.
The pain is described as sharp or burning pain. It worsens with certain movements like turning the head or straining the neck. Other symptoms may include:
- Tingling or “pins and needles”
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
- Weakened reflexes
A pinched nerve affects each person differently. For example, a pinched vagus nerve may cause depression, headaches, and poor digestive function. Learn more about the vagus nerve and how a pinched vagus nerve affects the body.
Pinched Nerve Treatment
If you have persistent symptoms, there are several pinched nerve tips and treatment options. You will start with non-surgical therapy to treat your pinched nerve. Over 85% of pinched nerve cases get better without specific treatment in around 8 to 12 weeks.
Immobilization
A soft cervical collar gets placed around your neck to stop your neck from moving. It allows your neck muscles to rest and reduces the pinching of the nerve. It should be worn for a short time so your neck muscles do not weaken.
Physical Therapy
Some exercises provided by a physical therapist can reduce pain. Physical therapy can improve the range of motion and strengthen neck muscles. Traction can gently stretch the joints and muscles in your neck.
Cervical Steroid Injection
Steroids can get injected near the area affected by the pinched nerve. These injections can reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the neck. It may help speed recovery time.
Find Relief Today
Now that we have answered the question “what is a pinched nerve in the neck?” you can seek relief for your neck pain. Often, you will not need medical treatment for a pinched nerve. If your pain persists, seek medical help to relieve the pain of your pinched nerve.
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