Every year, approximately 85 out of 100,000 adults suffer from pinched nerves. Pinched nerves, particularly in the neck, can hurt a lot, but how do you know you have a pinched nerve and not something else?
There are some common symptoms of a pinched nerve in the neck that can help you determine if this could be what is ailing you.
In this article, you will better understand the common symptoms and when you should seek help for treatment. Keep reading and feel better soon!
Table of Contents
Trapped Nerve in Neck
There are seven vertebrae (or small bones) in the upper part of your spine. They start at the bottom of your skull, and they end at your shoulders. These seven small bones are called the cervical spine.
Your nerves, or foramen, branch outward from the spinal cord. Then, they exit through small openings between the vertebrae.
Common Symptoms
If you have nerves here that become compressed or irritated, you could suffer from chronic neck pain. Other than the pain in your neck, you can suffer from the following common symptoms.
- Weakness in the arm, hand, shoulder, or all three
- Tingling or numbness in the hand and arm
- Loss of sensation in the hand, arm, or both
Further, you may only feel these symptoms when you move your neck.
There are a few ways to diagnose a pinched nerve. A doctor will ask about the above symptoms and then examine your neck, along with your arms, shoulders, and hands. Then, there are a few tests to further assist with a diagnosis.
- The spurling test
- X-ray
- CT scan
- MRI scan
- EMG
With a proper diagnosis, you can seek treatment.
Pinched Nerve in Neck Treatment
For many people, pinched nerve healing can take place on its own within four weeks. However, even if it heals, it is common for it to return later on.
You should seek treatment for your neck pain. There are both surgical and non-surgical options for treatment.
Non-surgical options include:
- Immobilization
- Exercises
- Medication
Talk to your doctor. Seek help with the best course of treatment for your pinched neck nerve.
How Long Does a Pinched Nerve Last?
On average, it could be a few days, but it can also be four to six weeks. Sometimes, longer.
The length of time for a pinched nerve largely depends on if you seek quick treatment. It also depends on what is causing the pressure on your nerve. If you have a chronic condition like arthritis, it could last a lot longer.
Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve in the Neck
If you have any of the three common symptoms of a pinched nerve in the neck, there are treatment options. You do not need to suffer.
For more advice on your health and feeling better from what ails you, we have a lot more brilliant articles like this one.
Don’t leave yet! Check out our other articles now, and live a healthier life, pain-free!
