Pinched Nerve Treatments

Pinched Nerve Treatments in Wayne, New Jersey

A pinched nerve is a common condition caused when nerves are compressed by nearby tissue. While most cases will self-repair with time and homecare, others require medical intervention. High Mountain Orthopedics specializes in finding the right solutions for pinched nerves in the neck, back, and spine. We offer treatments to patients from our convenient location in Wayne, New Jersey.

What Is a Pinched Nerve?

Nerves are your body’s information network, carrying messages from your organs and extremities to your brain to be processed. Properly functioning nerves are important, as they tell you when something is hurting and you need to react. When nerves are compressed, however, they start to misfire. Pinched nerves send false signals or even lose information. The result is a range of symptoms like:

• Numbness in the compressed area
• Sharp, aching, or burning pain that radiates outward
• Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations
• Muscle weakness during physical activities
• Feet that frequently fall asleep
• Pain that worsens when turning or straining the neck

Most pinched nerves can often be restored to full function within a few days or weeks. In some cases, however, more advanced treatment is necessary.

Major Causes and Risk Factors

Pinched nerves occur when the surrounding tissues put too much pressure on the nerve. This can happen for any number of reasons. Mild cases are often the result of repetitive motions or holding the body in a single position for too long (i.e. sleeping in a strange position). Chronic pinched nerves, on the other hand, are likely the result of inflammation, built-up scar tissue, or changes in the spinal column. Common causes include:

• Previous injuries: A back strain or fracture may result in bone overgrowth, scar tissue, or other poorly healed tissue that presses on nearby nerves.
• Arthritis: Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint inflammation, especially in aging populations. These inflamed areas can pinch the nerves that run through them.
• Bulging or herniated discs: If one of your spinal discs bulges or slips out of place, nearby nerves may become compressed or pinched.
• Stress: Repetitive motions from work, sports, or hobbies may lead to enlarged tendons, ligaments, and muscles, putting unhealthy pressure on nerves.

Our Pinched Nerve Treatments

In many cases, physical therapy is sufficient treatment. A round of physical therapy can ease pressure on the pinched area, strengthen your body, improve your flexibility, and help you maintain good positioning, preventing the condition from recurring. Meanwhile, lifestyle coaching can help you limit repetitive activities, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce your risk of developing more pinched nerves in the future.

In some cases, however, physical therapy and lifestyle modifications aren’t enough. If the pinched nerve does not improve after a few weeks or months of conservative treatment, doctors may recommend surgery. Surgical treatment can remove bone spurs, herniated discs, or malformed ligaments, allowing more room for the nerve to pass through your spine without pinching.

Seek Treatment Today

Pinched nerves are uncomfortable, but quality care can help. High Mountain Orthopedics is run by a team of experts in chronic conditions, including pinched nerves in the neck, back, and spine. We serve patients from across the region at our offices in Wayne, New Jersey. To learn more, contact us to schedule an office or telemedicine appointment.