A pinched nerve in the spine is typically caused by surrounding tissues that are applying pressure on the nerve. This pressure can come from bone, cartilage, muscle, tendons, or any other tissue that is inflamed or that has otherwise invaded a nerve’s space. As a result, the nerve’s signals can be both interrupted and amplified. The result is tingling, numbness, muscle spasms, and shooting pain traveling from the site of the pinched nerve to other areas of the body.
Examples of specific pinched nerve causes in the spine include:
- Bulging disc
- Herniated disc
- Spinal arthritis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Bone spurs
- Facet disease
As you can see, there are many conditions of the back and neck that could impinge on a nerve, and pinched nerve treatment can vary depending on the underlying condition. For example, once your doctor has confirmed that a pinched nerve is causing your symptoms, he or she may recommend special exercises, physical therapy, anti-inflammatories, pain medication, or corticosteroid injections to minimize the effects of a pinched nerve.
After you’ve tried these treatments for a few months and you are not feeling any better, your doctor might suggest the possibility of pinched nerve surgery. The purpose of this surgery is to remove any debris in the spinal column that is impinging on the affected nerve(s), providing you with a more permanent form of relief. And, while you may be able to get this surgery by checking into a hospital for a few days, Laser Spine Institute (LSI) invites you to contact us about a less risky solution – our minimally invasive outpatient procedures. Using the most advanced endoscopic technologies available, the surgeons at LSI can release your pinched nerves in less than an hour, allowing you to walk away from the operating table within a couple hours and return the next day for physical therapy. For more information about our revolutionary treatment of pinched nerve causes, and to receive a free MRI or CT scan review, contact LSI today.
