Pinched Nerve

Pinched Nerve
What is a Pinched Nerve?
Treatment Options
Recovery Time
Level of Activity after Treatment

What is a Pinched Nerve?

The major nerves that emerge from the spine have two parts. One can think of the nerve as a TV cable that carries different signal types. In short, pressure on the nerve can cause disruption of signal transmission, causing pain, weakness in the muscle and numbness. Pinching of the nerve can be caused by different conditions, such as, herniated disc, bone spurs and, spine stenosis.

Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve: Individual patients may experience tingling, numbness, sharp, or pinching pain traveling in the arm or leg. Pain can be severe. At times it may interfere with the proper functioning of the arm or leg. In some cases, the initial sharp, shooting pain tends to subside after the first few weeks. Pain tends to be replaced by numbness, tingling and even hypersensitivity to touch. In others, pain may not be a major presenting problem or symptom. Instead they may experience weakness in the muscles of the arm or leg.

Causes of a Pinched Nerve: In the younger population, common causes include bulging or herniated disc. In older individuals, spine stenosis or narrowing the spinal canal is becoming more prevalent. The common denominator among the causes of the pinched nerve is pressure or compression of the nerve. Compressed nerve is not able to transmit the signal properly. If the signal can not reach its intended muscle, it can lead to muscle weakness and in more severe cases, complete loss of the muscle function.

Diagnosis of a Pinched Nerve: Most individuals are diagnosed based on their symptoms and physical findings, by a health care provider. In cases with continued pain or muscle weakness, plain x-rays, CAT scan and MRIs can be helpful to evaluate the underlying cause of the pinched nerve. The proper diagnosis is critical in devising the right treatment option for the pinched nerve.

Treatment Options

After the proper diagnosis of pinched nerve is established, an individualized treatment plan can be devised. The goal is to provide a lasting result with the best functional recovery. After reviewing the clinical and imaging findings, Dr. Mohamed Mohi Eldin focuses on the least invasive treatment first. Anti-inflammatory medications, specific physical therapy regimen and postural training are some of the initial treatment options. Pain management, including injections and manipulative therapy are tried in some others. In cases of prolonged pain and loss function, minimally invasive surgical decompression can bring the relief of pain. Unlike the other treatment options, the surgical procedures are designed to relieve the pressure from the nerve. In some instances, spinal decompression may be the first line treatment option for the pinched nerve. As stated earlier, after a careful and detailed clinical evaluation, Dr. Mohamed Mohi Eldin will offer you an individualized treatment plan best suited for your particular condition.

Recovery Time

In case of surgical intervention, you may need a lumbar or cervical decompression. Most of these procedures are performed, without an overnight stay, in one of our outpatient facilities. After a few hours of recovery at the facility, patients are able to go home. Most patients will return to work in 3 to 4 weeks after the surgery.

Level of Activity After Treatment

The first two weeks after the surgery is a time to relax and avoid strenuous activities. The incisions are small and healing takes place during this time. You will have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Mohamed Mohi Eldin generally ten days after surgery for a wound check. Timing of physical therapy and strengthening exercises are discussed during this visit.

Why Select Dr. Mohamed Mohi Eldin?