What Are Pinched Nerves?

Pinched nerves are exactly what the term implies—a nerve is being “pinched” or compressed in some way by the surrounding bones, muscles, or ligaments. This can be a very painful condition, and in severe cases may cause permanent nerve damage if not treated. 

Signs and Symptoms of A Pinched Nerve

The most common symptom of a pinched nerve is a pain in the area where the nerve is pinched. This is most often in the neck and/or upper back, though a pinched nerve can occur anywhere along the spine.

For some people, this may feel like a dull, aching pain, though others may experience sharp, sudden pain when moving. Pinched nerves may go on to cause a tingling or numbness in the shoulders, arms, hands, legs, or feet. These pains are often compared to feeling “pins and needles” in the extremities, or as though the limbs are “falling asleep.” The muscles may feel weak or fatigue easily when you have a pinched nerve.

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Pinched Nerves

The upper cervical spine is the most vulnerable part of the spine, which is why pinched nerves are most common in this area. This part of the spine consists of the uppermost seven vertebrae which run from the base of the skull and down the neck. A jolt or injury to this part of the spine, or even poor posture, can cause misalignments that result in pinched nerves. 

The upper cervical spine can also play a major role in pinched nerves in the middle or lower back. When the upper cervical spine is misaligned, the body attempts to compensate by shifting the posture. This puts excessive pressure on different joints, muscles, and ligaments which can result in pinched nerves.

How Our Upper Cervical Spine Treatment Works

Dr. Christina Coblish and Dr. Ryan Moeskau of Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Boulder are experts in the treatment of pinched nerves. Dr. Coblish and Dr. Moeskau are specialists in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern technique that focuses on the upper cervical spine. 

Unlike traditional chiropractic methods, which involve sudden jerking and/or twisting to realign the spine, the Blair technique is a more precise, gentler process. An examination begins with state-of-the-art 3D diagnostic imaging tests so that the doctors can assess the health of your spine and calculate the exact areas of misalignment. The doctors can then make manual adjustments using low-force techniques that are swift, gentle, and precise.

Once the spine is realigned, it alleviates compression of the nerves, and patients will generally feel some immediate relief. More importantly, once in proper alignment, the body can resume its natural processes that promote healing and wellness.

If you suffer from back pain and suspect it might be due to pinched nerves, contact us for a consultation. We aim to help pinpoint the problem and offer a safe, drug-free, non-invasive treatment to help you feel good again. Our office services the areas of Boulder, Longmont,  Louisville,  Erie,  Lafayette,  Broomfield, and Denver in Colorado.