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Top Reasons to Visit a Chiropractor to Treat a Pinched Nerve


January 23rd, 2025

Are you experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in your body? You might be suffering from a pinched nerve. A pinched nerve occurs when excessive pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons. This compression disrupts the nerve’s ability to function properly and can drastically affect your life, making it painful to sit, stand, and even sleep. Thankfully, there is a drug-free solution to relieve your pain and to correct pinched nerves: chiropractic care. Legacies Health Centre has compiled some information about pinched nerves, also called cervical radiculopathy, and the benefits of chiropractic care to treat and relieve the pain associated with it.

What Causes a Pinched Nerve?

Several factors can contribute to the development of a pinched nerve. Common causes include:
  • herniated disks in the spine
  • osteoarthritis and bone spurs
  • injuries from physical activities or repetitive motions
  • sudden trauma or stress on the nerves
  • poor posture or prolonged periods in one position

Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve

The symptoms of a pinched nerve can vary depending on its location. Here are some common areas and their associated symptoms:
Area Symptoms
Neck Stiffness and difficulty moving the neck, with pain radiating down the arm.
Shoulder Numbness and pain may affect the shoulders, arms, and upper back
Lower Back Intense pain near the spine and glutes that radiates down the legs, commonly referred to as sciatica.
Wrist Reduces movement in the hand and fingers and may lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome
Generally, individuals may experience pain (sharp, aching, or burning), numbness, tingling sensations, and muscle weakness in the affected area and surrounding regions.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care aims to address the root cause of pinched nerves by realigning the spine and reducing pressure on affected nerves. This non-invasive approach focuses on restoring proper alignment and function rather than just masking symptoms. Chiropractic care offers a targeted approach to treating pinched nerves. It begins with a complete assessment of the symptoms to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Tests and scans are often used to identify the cause and severity of the pinched nerve. Once the diagnosis is established, the chiropractor prepares a treatment plan that usually includes all or some of the following:
  • spinal manipulation techniques to adjust the spine and joints and thereby reduce compression on the affected nerve
  • the incorporation of physiotherapy machines such as shockwave, cold laser, ultrasound and prescribing gentle exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles
  • lifestyle recommendations to prevent future occurrences
  • personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs for pain relief, recovery, and rehabilitation
While recovery time for a pinched nerve can vary, chiropractic treatment may expedite the healing process by directly addressing the source of compression and promoting overall spinal health. By improving mobility and correcting misalignments, chiropractic care not only alleviates current symptoms but also supports long-term well-being.

Find a Chiropractor in the Lower Mainland

If a pinched nerve Is causing you pain, contact Legacies Health Centre to learn more about chiropractic care and the types of treatment that may bring you relief. We have four locations across the Lower Mainland to welcome you in Burnaby, North Vancouver, North Surrey, South Surrey and surrounding areas.
Manreet Hans | Chiropractor

Dr. Manreet, a Doctor of Chiropractic with a Clinical Excellence Award, holds a Bachelor of Science from Simon Fraser University. She offers integrative care, using techniques like Diversified, ART, Cupping, and exercise, treating a diverse range of patients. Her philosophy: “I believe in patient education. My goal is to inspire my patients to live a healthier pain-free life, full of movements they enjoy.” Book online with with Manreet Hans in South Surrey.