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Causes of a Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back A Pinched Nerve Root in the Neck vs. the Lower Back Choosing a Spinal Pinched Nerve Procedure If I Have a Pinched Nerve, Am I a Surgery Candidate? Obtaining a Pinched Nerve Diagnosis Conservative Pinched Nerve Treatment How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS Causes of a Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back Determining the causes of a pinched nerve in the lower back (lumbar region of the spine) can be difficult, as there are usually several contributing factors that have led to the occurrence. One of the main causes, however, is the natural process of spinal degeneration that takes place as we grow older. The spinal components – vertebrae, facet joints, intervertebral discs, ligaments, and muscles – work together to provide support the body, but years of wear and tear can take its toll on these components. Discs become weak and may bulge or herniate; facet joints can become arthritic; a vertebra may slip out of place in relation to an adjacent vertebra. Any of these occurrences can lead to the compression of the spinal cord or a nerve root, which usually causes symptoms of radiating pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling to affect the extremities. Additional Factors While the unavoidable process of aging is the most common cause of a pinched nerve in the lower back, there are a number of additional contributing factors that can lead to the development of the condition, including: Poor posture – Whenever you stand or sit with stooped shoulders and/or with the abdomen projecting outward, it means you are relaxing your muscles, which can force all the other spinal components to work harder to support the upper body. Over time, the added stress can cause a pinched nerve to develop. Repetitive movements – Occupational or recreational activities that require repetitive spinal movements (bending, lifting, twisting, and turning) can accelerate the degenerative process. Pregnancy – Many women experience pinched nerve pain while they are pregnant, as the added weight of the fetus places undue stress on the lower back. Injury – Minor bumps and jolts over a lifetime, as well as sudden, traumatic injuries can compromise the stability and strength of the spinal components. Helpful Treatments After a doctor diagnoses a patient with lumber nerve compression, he or she typically suggests a course of conservative, nonsurgical treatments. Some of these methods might include physical therapy, hot/cold therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioid pain medication, and nerve root blocks, among others. Surgery is rarely necessary to treat a lumbar pinched nerve. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

A Pinched Nerve Root in the Neck vs. the Lower Back Choosing a Spinal Pinched Nerve Procedure If I Have a Pinched Nerve, Am I a Surgery Candidate? Obtaining a Pinched Nerve Diagnosis Conservative Pinched Nerve Treatment How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS A Pinched Nerve Root in the Neck vs. the Lower Back A pinched nerve can occur in any area of the body, including the spinal column. The individual vertebrae that form the spinal column are stacked on top of each other, and provide protection to the spinal cord, which runs from the base of the brain into the lower back. Along the way, nerve roots extend off the spinal cord, exit the spinal column through passageways called intervertebral foramina, and branch off into various areas of the body. These delicate nerve structures are particularly susceptible to compression as they travel through the foramina, as these openings are already narrow and can be easily constricted by bulging or herniated disc material, a displaced vertebra, or other anatomical abnormalities. While neuropathic symptoms usually occur as a result of a pinched spinal nerve root, where those symptoms arise will depend on whether the affected nerve root is located in the neck or lower back. Cervical Nerve Root Compression A pinched nerve root in the neck, or cervical region of the spine, could lead to some or all of the following symptoms: Lumbar Nerve Root Compression A pinched nerve root in the lower back, or lumbar region of the spine, may cause Shooting pain that travels down the legs and into the feet and toes Leg muscle weakness and numbness Muscle spasms Tingling In most cases, doctors initially recommend that patients suffering from a pinched cervical or lumbar nerve root begin a regimen of conservative, nonsurgical treatments. These treatments can range from over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and prescription pain medication to physical therapy and lifestyle modification. Typically, several weeks or months of conservative pinched nerve treatment can effectively mitigate symptoms, and only a small percentage of patients fail to respond to these methods. As a result, these patients may be asked to consider surgical intervention. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

Choosing a Spinal Pinched Nerve Procedure If I Have a Pinched Nerve, Am I a Surgery Candidate? Obtaining a Pinched Nerve Diagnosis Conservative Pinched Nerve Treatment How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS Choosing a Spinal Pinched Nerve Procedure The decision to undergo a spinal pinched nerve procedure is not something that should be taken lightly. Only after having attempted a wide variety of conservative (non-surgical) treatments over the course of several months should surgery be considered, and even then not all patients will be viable candidates for a spine procedure. Once you and your doctor have decided that a surgical procedure offers you the best chance for pain relief and an improved quality of life, you will need to determine what type of procedure will be best for your specific condition. In general, spine surgeries will fall under two categories: endoscopic surgery and open spine surgery. Gathering information about the risks and benefits of both will be an important part of your decision-making process, and you should always feel free to get opinions from more than one specialist before consenting to any spinal pinched nerve procedure Open Spine Surgery An open spine surgery is an inpatient procedure that requires hospitalization and general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a fairly large incision in the back, neck, side, or abdomen to gain access to the affected areas of the spine so that the anatomical material, whether bone or tissue, that is causing neural compression can be removed. Because a large portion of the anatomy will be excised, a spinal fusion is often necessary to stabilize the spine. During a fusion, the intervertebral disc between the vertebrae where neural compression is occurring is completely removed and in its place, a bone graft is inserted. The graft and adjacent vertebrae are then fastened together with hardware so that the graft can facilitate new bone growth that will eventually immobilize and stabilize the segment of the spine that contains the previously compressed nerve. This type of pinched nerve procedure is highly invasive and can involve a fairly long and arduous rehabilitation. Endoscopic Surgery An endoscopic pinched nerve procedure is a minimally invasive, outpatient surgery. The surgeon will make a small incision, through which a series of thin tubes, an endoscope, a light, and small surgical tools are funneled. By using the endoscope to view the interior of the spine on a video monitor, the surgeon does not need to open the spine with a large incision. Only the disc or bone material causing neural compression is removed, which precludes the need for the extra stabilization of a fusion. Patients who undergo endoscopic surgery generally enjoy a much shorter recovery period than that associated with an open spine surgery. To learn more about an endoscopic pinched nerve procedure and to find out if you are a candidate, Contact Laser Spine Institute. As the leader in endoscopic spine surgery, we have helped tens of thousands of patients worldwide find relief from back and neck pain. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

If I Have a Pinched Nerve, Am I a Surgery Candidate? Obtaining a Pinched Nerve Diagnosis Conservative Pinched Nerve Treatment How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Piriformis Syndrome Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS If I Have a Pinched Nerve, Am I a Surgery Candidate? Whether or not you are a candidate for pinched nerve surgery will depend on a variety of factors. Your doctor will need to consider your age, your general state of health, the severity of your pinched nerve, which conservative treatments have been tried, and whether you have undergone any previous surgeries for spine conditions, among other variables. If you prove to be a good candidate for surgery – spine surgery is almost always considered an elective procedure – you will then need to consider the different types of procedures that are available to you. Types of Pinched Nerve Surgery All forms of pinched nerve surgery will share the common goal of relieving neural compression, regardless of whether the compression is being caused by a herniated disc, bulging disc, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis. However, each surgery will take a different approach to decompression. Possibilities include: Laminotomy – Ythis involves removing a portion of or an entire lamina (a bony plate on the vertebral arch) and any bone spurs that may have formed on it to widen the spinal canal and make room for spinal nerves. Discectomy – this involves removing a portion of or an entire intervertebral disc that is either herniated or bulging and causing neural compression. Foraminotomy – this involves widening an intervertebral foramen. The intervertebral foramina are open passageways on either side of vertebrae that allow spinal nerves to pass as they branch off nerve roots. A foraminotomy removes bone or tissue material that is constricting the space. Exploring the Different Procedures There are different approaches to all of the above forms of pinched nerve surgery. For instance, an open spine discectomy that requires the removal of an entire vertebral disc is usually accompanied by spinal fusion, which involves a bone graft and the implantation of stabilizing hardware. However, a minimally invasive form of this procedure is available, in which endoscopic technology removes only a portion of the disc without the need for a large incision, hardware, bone grafts, or fusion. No matter which procedure you require for your pinched nerve, be sure to gather as much information as possible about the different forms that procedure can take and their respective risks and benefits. To learn more about minimally invasive, outpatient procedures aimed at relieving neural decompression in the spine, Contact Laser Spine Institute. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

Obtaining a Pinched Nerve Diagnosis Conservative Pinched Nerve Treatment How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Piriformis Syndrome Pinched Nerve Information Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS Obtaining a Pinched Nerve Diagnosis While the idea of getting a pinched nerve diagnosis can be scary, just remember that the sooner you know what exactly is causing your pain, the sooner you can relieve your symptoms with an appropriate treatment plan. If you have been experiencing pain, weakness, tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in your back, neck, and/or extremities and think a pinched spinal nerve may be to blame, make an appointment with your primary care physician. The Diagnostic Process Every doctor will have his or her own approach to confirming a pinched nerve diagnosis, but you will likely undergo some combination of the following: A physical exam – Your doctor will probably palpate your spine to check for areas of swelling, tenderness, or other abnormalities. He or she may also conduct tests to gauge your reflexes, flexibility, and range of motion. A review of your symptoms – Your doctor will want to know very specific information about your symptoms, including their location, duration, frequency, and severity. If you’re afraid you won’t be able to remember all of this during your consultation, write out a list of symptoms beforehand and bring it to your appointment. Analysis of family’s medical history – Some patients are genetically predisposed to developing conditions that cause pinched nerves. For this reason, your doctor may ask if your parents, aunts, uncles, or grandparents ever suffered from the condition. If you aren’t sure, try to find out before going to your consultation. Medical imaging – If the above diagnostic techniques do not provide your doctor with enough information to confirm a pinched nerve diagnosis, he or she may order an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan to get a detailed view of the interior of the spine. This will allow the doctor to see any bone or tissue abnormalities that may be pressing on a spinal nerve or nerve root. e The Next Step – A Treatment Plan Once a pinched nerve diagnosis has been confirmed, you will need to embark on a treatment plan to try and minimize your symptoms and maintain mobility. Most patients will be able to achieve these goals through non-surgical means, but a small percentage of people will need to consider the option of surgery. Minimally invasive procedures are available, but not every patient will be a candidate. For more information about advanced endoscopic treatments for pinched nerves, and a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan, Contact Laser Spine Institute. To learn more about our minimally invasive, outpatient option for surgery, Contact Laser Spine Institute for a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan. In the event that your symptoms do no abate after several months of the above treatments, surgery may become a consideration. Contact Laser Spine Institute to learn more about our minimally invasive approach to pinched nerve treatment. Our innovative, endoscopic techniques offer many patients a welcome alternative to the potential risks and complications of open spine surgery. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

Conservative Pinched Nerve Treatment How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Piriformis Syndrome Pinched Nerve Information Pinched Nerve Surgery Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS Conservative Pinched Nerve Treatment Pinched nerve treatment can take a variety of forms, but in nearly all cases, conservative treatments will be attempted first. After confirming a pinched nerve diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe a regimen of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, hot and cold compresses, gentle stretching, and low-impact exercise. Other non-surgical options for pain management include analgesic pain patches, ultrasound therapy, corticosteroid injections, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Alternative Forms of Pinched Nerve Treatment Some patients choose to augment or replace their prescribed pinched nerve treatment plan with alternative therapies. Although not considered part of modern Western medicine, the following techniques have reportedly helped many people achieve relief from pinched nerve symptoms: Acupuncture Acupressure Yoga Massage Biofeedback Herbal remedies Chiropractic manipulation If you choose to try alternative treatments, be sure to check with your physician to make sure that these approaches will not counteract any of the other treatments you may be undergoing. Surgery as a Form of Pinched Nerve Treatment For about 90 percent of patients with a pinched nerve, treatment in the form of conservative, non-surgical approaches will sufficiently relieve their symptoms. For the other 10 percent, surgery may become a consideration if symptoms become chronic and debilitating. Be sure to explore all of the surgical options that are available to you, including endoscopic procedures that address pinched nerves without the drawbacks of open spine surgery. To learn more about our minimally invasive, outpatient option for surgery, Contact Laser Spine Institute for a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan. In the event that your symptoms do no abate after several months of the above treatments, surgery may become a consideration. Contact Laser Spine Institute to learn more about our minimally invasive approach to pinched nerve treatment. Our innovative, endoscopic techniques offer many patients a welcome alternative to the potential risks and complications of open spine surgery. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Piriformis Syndrome Pinched Nerve Information Pinched Nerve Surgery Pinched Nerve Exercises Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS How Pinched Nerve Symptoms Develop Pinched nerve symptoms will vary based on which specific nerve or nerves are compressed, as well as their location in the body. Nerve impingement in the spine can be especially debilitating because this is where the spinal nerve roots (nerves that branch off the spinal cord) reside – if a root is pinched, all of the peripheral neural pathways branching off that root throughout the body will be affected, a condition referred to as radiculopathy. A variety of conditions can cause a pinched nerve root in the upper back and neck (cervical spine), or the lower back (lumbar spine), including herniated discs, bulging discs, spondylolisthesis, and bone spurs. Common Symptoms Pinched nerve symptoms can take any of the following forms and will usually be radiculopathic in nature, meaning that they will radiate or travel along the entire path of the nerve or nerves that branch off from the compressed root: Sharp pain Warm, burning pain Numbness Tingling or a pins-and-needles sensation Muscle weakness What to Do After a Positive Diagnosis If, due to any of the above pinched nerve causes, you do develop nerve compression and your doctor confirms this during the course of a physical exam and medical imaging, you will need to embark on a treatment plan. Most people with a pinched nerve are able to relieve their symptoms with a regimen of conservative treatments that may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, gentle stretching, low-impact exercise, corticosteroid injections, hot compresses, and ice packs. Your doctor may also suggest ultrasound therapy, analgesic pain patches, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). In the event that your symptoms do no abate after several months of the above treatments, surgery may become a consideration. Contact Laser Spine Institute to learn more about our minimally invasive approach to pinched nerve treatment. Our innovative, endoscopic techniques offer many patients a welcome alternative to the potential risks and complications of open spine surgery. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Piriformis Syndrome Pinched Nerve Information Pinched Nerve Surgery Pinched Nerve Exercises Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Offers Many Advantages Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS The Most Common Pinched Nerve Causes Pinched nerve causes can vary and may depend on where in the body the pinched nerve is located. For instance, if the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed (carpal tunnel syndrome), one of the main causes is overexertion due to repetitive motions like typing for long periods of time. In the spine, however, the main cause of a pinched nerve is degeneration caused by the aging process. As we grow older, the elements of the tightly compact spinal column can begin to change. Intervertebral discs can bulge or herniate, bone spurs can develop in arthritic joints, and unstable vertebrae can shift out of alignment. Any of these degenerative changes can lead to spinal nerve compression. There are a variety of ways that a pinched nerve can develop in the spine. For instance, age-related degeneration may cause an intervertebral disc to bulge or herniate. A portion of the disc may then press on a nearby spinal nerve or nerve root. The same can occur if bone spurs develop or if a ligament, muscle, or tendon becomes inflamed. Risk Factors to Avoid In addition to degenerative pinched nerve causes, a pinched nerve can also occur due to a sudden injury, prolonged overexertion, obesity, high-impact contact sports, or congenital spine abnormalities. While there is really no way to avoid the possibility of a pinched nerve – some people will simply be more susceptible than others – there are several lifestyle adjustments you can make to keep your spine as healthy and strong as possible, including: Quit smoking and/or use of tobacco products Limit alcohol consumption Maintain correct posture Maintain a healthy body weight Stay active Stretch regularly These symptoms will tend to travel or radiate throughout the body. For instance, a compressed nerve in the neck (cervical spine) may cause discomfort to shoot through the shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers, whereas an impinged nerve in the lower back (lumbar spine) may cause symptoms to radiate through the buttocks, hips, legs, feet, and toes What to Do After a Positive Diagnosis If, due to any of the above pinched nerve causes, you do develop nerve compression and your doctor confirms this during the course of a physical exam and medical imaging, you will need to embark on a treatment plan. Most people with a pinched nerve are able to relieve their symptoms with a regimen of conservative treatments that may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, gentle stretching, low-impact exercise, corticosteroid injections, hot compresses, and ice packs. Your doctor may also suggest ultrasound therapy, analgesic pain patches, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). In the event that your symptoms do no abate after several months of the above treatments, surgery may become a consideration. Contact Laser Spine Institute to learn more about our minimally invasive approach to pinched nerve treatment. Our innovative, endoscopic techniques offer many patients a welcome alternative to the potential risks and complications of open spine surgery. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

How a Pinched Nerve Develops Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Piriformis Syndrome Pinched Nerve Information Pinched Nerve Surgery Pinched Nerve Exercises Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Offers Many Advantages Laser Back Surgery at Laser Spine Institute: Offering New Ways to Get Your Life Back Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS How a Pinched Nerve Develops A pinched nerve, which may also be referred to as a compressed or impinged nerve, occurs when some sort of anatomical abnormality presses on a nerve. It can occur anywhere in the body, though the spine is a common site of nerve compression because spinal nerves, nerve roots, vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and spinal ligaments are in such close proximity to each other. There are a variety of ways that a pinched nerve can develop in the spine. For instance, age-related degeneration may cause an intervertebral disc to bulge or herniate. A portion of the disc may then press on a nearby spinal nerve or nerve root. The same can occur if bone spurs develop or if a ligament, muscle, or tendon becomes inflamed. What is Radiculopathy? Radiculopathy is a term reserved for symptoms that result from the compression of a spinal nerve root. These roots in the spinal column are where virtually all peripheral nerves in the body originate from, and a pinched nerve root can actually cause symptoms to spread along the entire path of the root’s different branches and pathways. Possible symptoms of a pinched spinal nerve root include: Pain Tingling Numbness Muscle weakness These symptoms will tend to travel or radiate throughout the body. For instance, a compressed nerve in the neck (cervical spine) may cause discomfort to shoot through the shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers, whereas an impinged nerve in the lower back (lumbar spine) may cause symptoms to radiate through the buttocks, hips, legs, feet, and toes Getting a Diagnosis If you are experiencing radiculopathic symptoms and think you may have a pinched nerve in the spine, schedule a consultation with your primary care physician. He or she will likely perform a physical exam, ask you about you symptoms, and possibly order medical imaging tests like an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan. If your doctor is unable to confirm a diagnosis, you may be referred to a spine specialist. Most patients who are diagnosed with a pinched nerve are able to find relief from their symptoms with a regimen of conservative, non-surgical treatments. Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns

Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Lumbar Nerve Sufferers Can Benefit from Surgery at Laser Spine Institute Pinched Nerve Symptoms May Be Relieved With Laser Spine Treatment Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Can Be More Effective Than Traditional Methods Radiculopathy Piriformis Syndrome Treatment Piriformis Syndrome Pinched Nerve Information Pinched Nerve Surgery Pinched Nerve Exercises Pinched Nerve Treatment at Laser Spine Institute Offers Many Advantages Laser Back Surgery at Laser Spine Institute: Offering New Ways to Get Your Life Back Laser Back Surgery Is a Safe, Effective Alternative to Invasive Procedures Load More Why Choose LSI Aim I a Candidate? Our 5 Day Process The LSI Advantage Spinal Column Newsletter The spinal column newsletter is sent to individuals wishing to learn more about neck and back pain. Your email will not be sold or given out to anyone else. EMAIL ADDRESS Nerve Compression Can Be Fixed at Laser Spine Institute While there are dozens of specific back problems that come with their own unique symptoms and specific causes, most are variations on nerve compression. Simply stated, this condition occurs when any type of tissue—bone, spinal discs, cartilage, etc.—presses on the spinal cord or a nearby nerve, causing inflammation and irritation. Depending on the location of the nerve and the severity of the pressure, pain from nerve compression can travel down the limbs and into the fingers and toes, making even the simplest tasks, like standing in line or reaching for the remote, painful. That’s the case with sciatica, a common back problem that’s caused by compression of the sciatic nerve where it leaves the spinal canal. Nerve compression is also the cause of the pain associated with these other common back problems: Bulging disc Herniated disc Bone spurs Spinal stenosis Foraminal stenosis Spondylolisthesis Doctors use a variety of tactics to treat nerve compression, including surgery in the most extreme cases. When surgery becomes the only option, Laser Spine Institute is an excellent choice. We specialize in endoscopic procedures that are minimally invasive so the risk of infection and other side effects is low and the recovery is quick. Additionally, endoscopic treatments at LSI are highly effective in reducing painful symptoms caused by nerve compression. More than 85% of our patients report an increased quality of life within three months of surgery, and some even say they felt relief before the surgery was through. If you’d like more information on our state-of-the-art treatments for back pain, contact us today. We’ll review your CT scan or MRI free of charge to determine if one of our procedures can help you.  Submit below OR Call 1-866-850-6139 Find out if you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive alternative to open neck or back surgery First Name Last Name State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareWashington DCFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming Zip Phone Email Best Time Best Time to callMorningMid DayEveningAnytime Have you been in pain for 6 months or more? yesno Have you seen an orthopedic or neurosurgeon who has recommended that you have surgery to correct your condition? yesno Have you had an MRI or CTScan in the last 2 years? yesno Information Supplied By The Spinal Columns Network More Spinal Columns | All Columns