Pinched Nerve
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Vertrae®
Kamal R. Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS
Neurosurgeon located in Miamisburg, OH
A pinched nerve can cause pain and dysfunction throughout your body. If you suffer from symptoms like tingling or burning pain, book an appointment at Vertrae® in Dayton, Ohio. Led by board-certified neurosurgeon Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS, the practice offers several safe and effective treatments for pinched nerves. To speak with Dr. Woods about your symptoms, call or book your appointment online today.
Pinched Nerve Q & A
What is a pinched nerve?
Also known as radiculopathy, a pinched nerve is a condition that occurs when your nerve is under too much pressure. Your nerves can experience too much pressure from surrounding bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons.
A pinched nerve can occur throughout the body but it commonly affects the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) spine. The symptoms of a pinched nerve can include:
- Sharp or burning pain
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Loss of sensation
- Muscle weakness
A pinched nerve affects the health and function of the nerve. Although anyone can experience a pinched nerve, the condition is more common among people who are obese or who have jobs or hobbies that require repetitive, stressful movements.
What causes a pinched nerve?
Several conditions can result in excess pressure on your nerves, including injuries and degenerative disc disease. One of the most common causes of a pinched nerve is a herniated disc.
A herniated disc occurs when the fibrous outer part of your vertebral disc ruptures, causing the inner, soft part of the disc to bulge out. The bulging disc can press on your nearby nerves and cause pain and dysfunction.
Without proper treatment, a pinched nerve can result in chronic pain and permanent damage to your nerves.
What treatments are available for a pinched nerve?
Before recommending treatment, Dr. Woods performs a thorough evaluation to determine the severity and location of your pinched nerve. Your evaluation begins with a physical exam and review of your medical history.
Dr. Woods may perform a number of additional tests such as:
- Nerve conduction study
- Electromyography (EMG)
- MRI
- Ultrasound
After your evaluation, Dr. Woods works with you to determine the most effective treatment. If your condition is minor, he may recommend rest and limited activities for a short period of time.
Additional conservative treatments may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
In some cases, you may need surgery to address your pinched nerve. Dr. Woods has extensive experience performing a wide range of spinal procedures, and he offers minimally invasive and robotic options.
Vertrae® specializes in patient-centered, personalized care and works with you to determine the most appropriate treatment for your pinched nerve. To learn more about your options, call the office nearest you or book your appointment online today.
