Chiropractic therapy is a popular holistic medicine option for individuals seeking relief. Research suggests that chiropractic treatment can be effective in treating pinched nerves and providing relief for many patients. 

Chiropractors can identify the underlying causes of pinched nerves and use various techniques to help restore proper nerve function and alleviate pain.

Chiropractors provide relief for pinched nerves through non-invasive and drug-free treatments. They are manual adjustments and complementary therapies. They help ease pressure on the affected nerve and reduce inflammation. 

Chiropractic treatment also helps prevent future pinched nerves by:

  • Addressing any contributing factors;
  • And promoting overall spinal health. 

Also, chiropractic care is a safe alternative to traditional medical treatments, such as:

  • Pain medications;
  • Injections;
  • Or surgery.

But does chiropractic really work? In this article, we will explore the evidence behind chiropractors’ care for nerve pain and provide insight into the benefits of this alternative approach to healthcare.

What Can Cause a Pinched Nerve?

This condition can be due to a variety of factors, including:

  • Poor posture;
  • Repetitive motion;
  • Arthritis
  • Injuries;
  • Obesity
  • And other factors.

A pinched nerve occurs when a nerve is compressed. It can occur anywhere in the body. But chiropractors for pinched nerve treatment state that it is most common in:

  • Neck;
  • Or lower back. 

Let’s consider the causes in more detail:

1. Poor Posture. Poor posture can put extra pressure on nerves. This is especially true for individuals who spend long hours:

– sitting;

– or standing in the same position.

2. Herniated Disc. A herniated disc in the spine can compress a nerve root. A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc protrudes through a crack in the tougher exterior, putting pressure on the nerves.

3. Arthritis. It is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints. This can happen when the joint space:

– narrows;

– and compresses the surrounding nerves.

4. Injury. It can be fractures, dislocations, or sprains. It is one of the most common reasons for pinched nerves in chiropractic practice.

5. Repetitive Motion. This happens when the same motion repeats over and over again. Repetitive motion can involve typing or playing a musical instrument, etc.

6. Obesity. This is because excess body weight can put pressure on the spine and surrounding tissues.

7. Pregnancy. The extra weight and fluid retention can compress nerves in the wrist.

8. Diabetes: Diabetes can cause nerve damage. And high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves over time, making them more susceptible to compression.

pinched nerve chiropractic

How do You Understand that You Have a Pinched Nerve?

The symptoms of a pinched nerve include:

  • Pain;
  • Tingling and numbness;
  • Weakness;
  • Sensitivity to touch;
  • And limited range of motion. 

Let’s learn about these symptoms in more detail. It is important to know them in order to start chiropractic treatment for pinched nerves promptly.

1.Pain. The most common symptom of a pinched nerve is pain that can be:

– sharp;

– burning;

– or aching. 

The pain can be localized or can radiate to other body parts.

2. Tingling and numbness. You can experience a pins-and-needles sensation or numbness in the affected area.

3. Weakness. It can cause weakness or muscle atrophy in the affected area.

4. Sensitivity to touch. You can find that the affected area is sensitive to touch or pressure.

5. Limited range of motion. A pinched nerve can:

– limit your ability to move the affected area;

– and make simple tasks difficult.

More severe symptoms of a pinched nerve can include:

  • Muscle spasms;
  • Muscle weakness;
  • Loss of coordination;
  • Difficulty with fine motor movements;
  • And even bladder or bowel dysfunction. 
chiropractic treatment for pinched nerve

Can a Chiropractor Help with a Pinched Nerve?

Chiropractors for pinched nerve treatment can help through:

  • Non-invasive;
  • And drug-free treatments.

They are spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, stretching exercises, and many other methods. Diagnosis of a pinched nerve typically involves:

  • Physical exam;
  • And medical history review.

It can also include imaging tests such as:

  • X-rays;
  • MRI;
  • CT scans;
  • Or nerve conduction studies.

They help determine the location and severity of the nerve compression. Chiropractors can also perform orthopedic and neurological tests. These pinched nerve chiropractic tests evaluate:

  • Muscle strength;
  • Reflexes;
  • And sensation in the affected area.

To prevent nerve pain, chiropractors can advise on maintaining:

  • Proper posture;
  • Regular stretching and exercise;
  • Frequent breaks;
  • Ergonomic modifications;
  • And a healthy weight. 

 Here is a more detailed list of ways chiropractors help in the therapy for pinched nerves:

1.Spinal Adjustments

This technique involves:

  • Using manual techniques, such as a high-velocity thrust;
  • Or with the aid of specialized instruments or tables. 

Chiropractors can also combine spinal adjustments with other techniques, such as:

  • Soft tissue therapy;
  • And stretching exercises. 

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

It is also known as myofascial release or trigger point therapy. This chiropractic treatment for pinched nerve technique involves:

  • Massage;
  • Myofascial release;
  • And other manual methods. 

It can be particularly effective in cases where the pinched nerve is caused by:

  • Muscle tension;
  • Or inflammation.

3. TENS Therapy

TENS therapy, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, uses low-voltage electrical current to:

  • Stimulate the nerves;
  • And relieve pain. 

This pinched nerve chiropractic therapy implies:

  • Placing electrodes on the skin near the affected area;
  • And applying a gentle electrical current, which triggers the release of endorphins. They are the body’s natural painkillers. 

4. Stretching Exercises

Stretching exercises aim to lengthen tight muscles and connective tissues. This chiropractor adjustment for pinched nerves includes:

  • Static stretches;
  • Dynamic stretches;
  • Or a combination of both.

They are usually tailored to the specific needs of the patient. 

5. Cold Laser Therapy

It is also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), a non-invasive technique. It entails a handheld device that emits low-level laser light to the skin near the affected area. The laser light that a chiropractor applies for nerve pain can:

  • Penetrate the skin;
  • And stimulate cellular activity.

6. Heat and Ice Therapy

Heat therapy involves applying a warm compress or using a heating pad to:

  • Increase blood flow;
  • Relax muscles;
  • And reduce pain and stiffness. 

Ice therapy entails applying a cold compress or using an ice pack to reduce:

  • Inflammation;
  • Swelling;
  • And pain. 

7. Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy implies using high-frequency sound waves. This technique can be particularly effective in cases where the pinched nerve is due to:

  • Inflammation;
  • Or swelling.

8. Electrical Stimulation Therapy

This pinched nerve chiropractic technique involves:

  • Placing electrodes on the skin near the affected area;
  • And applying a gentle electrical current. 

9. Posture Correction Techniques

Poor posture can stress your spine, increasing the risk of nerve pain. Chiropractors for nerve pain therapy can recommend posture correction techniques, such as:

  • Spinal adjustments;
  • Or exercises.

10. Lifestyle Changes and Ergonomic Adjustments

Chiropractors can also recommend lifestyle changes and ergonomic adjustments. This can include maintaining:

  • Healthy weight;
  • Regular exercise;
  • Frequent breaks;
  • And ergonomic adjustments to your work environment.

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A Word from All Injury Rehab & Chiropractic Therapists

Chiropractic treatment for a pinched nerve is effective in:

  • Reducing pain and inflammation;
  • Alleviating the pressure on the affected nerve;
  • Improving mobility;
  • And promoting well-being.

While the level of relief and success can depend on the severity of the pinched nerve and individual factors, many patients report significant improvement in their symptoms with chiropractic treatment. 

It is essential to seek a chiropractor treatment for a pinched nerve promptly. Since untreated pinched nerves can lead to more severe conditions. And early intervention can help prevent further damage.

If you are suffering from a pinched nerve, visit All Injury Rehab & Chiropractic Therapists to explore non-invasive chiropractic treatment options that can help you find relief from your pain and improve your quality of life.

FAQ

How does a chiropractor release a pinched nerve?

A chiropractor can release a pinched nerve through various techniques, including:
– spinal adjustments;
– soft tissue therapy;
– and stretching exercises;
– and other methods.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a pinched nerve?

The fastest way to get rid of a pinched nerve is by taking appropriate measures such as:
– having rest;
– applying heat or ice;
– taking over-the-counter pain relievers;
– and doing gentle stretches.

What does it feel like when a pinched nerve is released?

It can feel like a sudden relief of:
– pain;
– numbness;
– tingling sensations;
– accompanied by a sense of relaxation and improved mobility.

Is chiropractic treatment for a pinched nerve painful?

It can cause some discomfort or mild soreness but is not usually painful. Chiropractors are trained to perform adjustments and therapy in a way that:
– minimizes discomfort;
– and maximizes effectiveness.