Pinched Nerve: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

By: dr. Dimas Rahman, Sp.BS, MARS, FTB, FINSS

Neck or lower back pain that radiates to the arms or legs is often considered simple fatigue or muscle strain. However, these symptoms may indicate a pinched nerve. This condition is common, especially among the working-age population, and can significantly disrupt daily activities if not treated properly.

What Is a Pinched Nerve?

The spine is supported by soft cushions called intervertebral discs, which function as shock absorbers and allow flexibility. When a disc bulges or shifts out of place, it can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, tingling, or muscle weakness. This condition is known as a pinched nerve.

Areas Commonly Affected

A pinched nerve can occur in any part of the spine, including:

• Cervical spine (neck)
• Thoracic spine (upper back)
• Lumbar spine (lower back)

Most cases occur in the lower back, often causing pain that radiates down the leg.

Causes of a Pinched Nerve

• Age-related degeneration

  Spinal discs lose elasticity and height over time.

• Heavy physical activity

  Improper lifting techniques or repetitive bending.

• Modern lifestyle factors
  • Prolonged sitting
  • Poor ergonomic posture
  • Frequent forward head posture when using gadgets
  • Excess body weight

• Injury or trauma

  More common in younger patients.

Common Symptoms

• Neck or lower back pain
• Pain radiating to the shoulder, arm, buttock, thigh, calf, or foot
• Electric shock-like or stabbing sensations
• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle weakness in the arms or legs
• Pain worsens when coughing, sneezing, or changing position

Warning signs: Severe cases may involve bladder, bowel, or sexual dysfunction. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Treatment Options

Not all cases require surgery. Treatment depends on symptom severity and diagnostic findings.

1. Conservative Treatment

• Posture correction and activity modification
• Weight reduction if indicated
• Neck collar or lumbar brace
• Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy including stretching and strengthening exercises

Most patients improve with conservative management.

2. Pain Intervention

For persistent severe pain, targeted injections may be performed to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, giving the nerve time to heal.

3. Surgery

Surgery is considered when:

• Severe pain does not improve
• Progressive nerve weakness is present
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction occurs

Modern minimally invasive procedures include:

• Spinal endoscopy (Uniportal or Biportal / BESS)
• ACDF / ACCF for cervical conditions
• Laminectomy to decompress the nerve

Minimally invasive techniques allow smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a pinched nerve heal without surgery?

Yes. Most cases resolve with conservative treatment.

Does all lower back pain indicate a pinched nerve?

No. Lower back pain may arise from muscles or joints. Nerve compression typically involves radiating pain or numbness.

Is physical therapy effective?

Yes. Physical therapy helps relieve pain, improve flexibility, and reduce recurrence.

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