Pinched Nerve Care - Symptoms and Treatments For a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

Many times people with compressed nerves in the neck do not realize that the resulting shoulder, arm or hand pain, tingling and weakness is actually from a pinched nerve because there may not be neck pain.

Pinched nerves are the result of pressure on the nerve - from a, damaged disc, muscle tear, inflammation, injury, arthritis or disease. Spinal vertebrae and discs are susceptible to injury, so taking care of the spinal column is extremely important. Proper posture is a very effective component in spinal health.

Pinched Nerve Care - Symptoms and Care

Symptoms of pinched nerves include pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in your extremities. Nerves in the neck exit from between the vertebra, continue through the shoulder, then down the arms and into the hands. If pressure is applied to the nerve roots, pain, tingling and weakness may result in the shoulder, arm and hand. The best way to remove the pain is to remove the pressure on the nerve.

Chiropractic adjustments can help to realign the vertebra, relax the muscles around bulging or herniated discs, and even ease the pain associated with spinal degeneration. Stretching, Yoga, physical therapy and other exercises can help to improve posture and loosen tight muscles, while strengthening the spinal column. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, acupuncture and laser therapy can be used to manage pain and reduce inflammation as well. As a last resort, surgery is sometimes prescribed.

For many people, chiropractic therapy helps to relieve pinched nerve symptoms. The first time someone visits a chiropractor for pinched nerve care, he or she will perform a physical examination, concentrating on the spine, and may request x-rays of the spine.

Regular visits back to the chiropractor for adjustments and spinal manipulation help to increase the range of motion in the area being treated, improve on the mechanical function and alleviate pain. Chiropractic pinched nerve care can also include alternating heat and ice, electrical muscle stimulation, dietary supplements and consultation about nutrition.

In order to practice chiropractic care in the United States, chiropractors must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from a college accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE). Admission to a chiropractic college can only be accepted after 90 credit hours of undergraduate study have been preformed.Upon completion of undergraduate studies, the D.C. is earned after an additional, rigorous 5-year academic program that includes both classroom work and clinical rotations.