Spinal Stenosis, Radiculopathy
A pinched nerve in the spine can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities. A pinched nerve in the lower back involves excessive pressure applied on the nerves around the spine by surrounding structures such as tissues, ligaments, cartilages, tendons, or muscles. This pressure causes the nerves to become compressed or entrapped resulting in a variety of mild to severe symptoms.
Symptoms Of A Pinched Nerve
Disc bulges or herniated discs
Between each vertebrae column of the spine is a soft gel-like disc. When the inner portion protrudes through the disc’s outer layer, it can compress or pinch the nearby nerve roots.
Bone Spurs
Some conditions like osteoarthritis can cause the spinal discs to become narrowed and bone spurs form above or below the discs. These bone spurs can compress nearby nerves.
Spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal that can put pressure on or compress the nerves that pass through that area.
Poor posture
Keeping a poor posture like slouching while standing or sitting for long periods of time can also cause nerve impingement.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling and inflammation in the joints of the spine thereby pinching nerves and causing back pain.
Trauma
Any kind of trauma to the spine or fractures and dislocations as a result of the trauma can compress nerves in the spine.
Repetitive motions
Doing repetitive motions of the back and bending the back can put pressure on the spine structures and compress nerves.
Other medical conditions
Some medical conditions such as tumours, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and other diseases can also cause nerve compression.
Medication and Injections
Pain medication, including over-the-counter NSAIDs, helps reduce pain and inflammation. Steroid injections or nerve blocks may be administered into the spine area to help manage pain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy including exercises, stretches, TENS stimulation, traction, and other techniques helps strengthen core muscles and improve spinal flexibility.
Braces and Splints
Wearing braces and splints for a few days following treatment of pinched nerve in your back helps in stabilising and improving the posture of the spine.
Pinched Nerve Surgery
Surgical procedures include Endoscopic Discectomy, Endoscopic Foraminoplasty, and Laminectomy.
Accreditations
Dr Gamaliel Tan is accredited with the following hospitals and medical centres:
Medisave & Insurance
Dr Gamaliel Tan is on the panel for the following insurance providers:
FAQs on Pinched Nerve Treatment
If you experience persistent pain because of the pinched nerves in your back and the pain does not seem to improve or resolve with conservative home remedies and rest for a few days, it is a good idea to get evaluated by qualified orthopaedic doctors for pinched nerve . Some problems like disc herniation and spinal stenosis, if left untreated, can lead to chronic conditions and complications.
