September 25, 2024
Pain and tingling radiating down your arm shouldn’t be something you need to live with. It may be a result of a pinched nerve in the shoulder. These can occur when surrounding tissues, like bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, create excessive pressure on a nerve.
Chiropractic care is known for relieving pain and a slew of muscle problems. But can a chiropractor help with a pinched nerve in the shoulder?
Read here to find out what a pinched nerve in the shoulder is, how it occurs, and how a chiropractor can help!
What is a Pinched Nerve in the Shoulder?
A pinched nerve, no matter where it is, is known as a compressed nerve. These occur when structures next to the nerve, such as vertebrae, ligaments, tendons, and other surrounding materials, press on the nerve. This extra pressure on the nerves sends extra signals to the brain, causing pain, numbness, and soreness in the affected area.
Generally, the nerve in question is located in the cervical area of the spine. The seven vertebrae of the cervical spine create extra pressure on the spinal cord, which sends signals of pain and other sensations to the brain.
5 Causes of a Pinched Nerve in Shoulder
Pinched nerves, specifically in the shoulder, can stem from many causes. These are some of the most common:
- Disc Degeneration
- Herniated Discs
- Pregnancy
- Injury
- Medical Conditions
A condition in which a damaged disc in the spine causes pain. The degeneration shifts the position of the spinal cord and “pinches,” sending electrical signals that relay pain and potential muscle spasms.
The spinal cord has the inner cord, called the nucleus, which carries the electrical signals, and a tougher exterior, called the annulus. When the nucleus pushes through a crack in the annulus, a disc herniation occurs. The nerve is compressed and sends signals of pain, numbness, and weakness.
The swelling and growth of a person’s body while pregnant places stress on the entire body. Moreover, the center of gravity changes during pregnancy, creating more opportunities for nerve pinching.
An acute injury to the spine can cause a pinched nerve. Something as minimal as an incorrect twist of the back to a fall or as major as an auto accident can result in a pinched nerve.
Other medical conditions, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can damage bones and, by extension, nerves. Conditions such as tumors, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism can also pinch nerves.
Symptoms of Pinched Nerve in Shoulder
If you believe you have a pinched nerve in your shoulder, there are some telltale signs. The most prevalent symptom is pain. This is not a dull ache or strain but a sharp and piercing pain. Normally, this only affects one shoulder at a time. Symptoms can spread from the shoulder in question down to the hand.
Nerve pain can be made worse by turning the head. The compressed nerve can create neck pain and headaches targeted at the back of the head. It can also create a “pins and needles” sensation in your shoulder. As well, the shoulder can develop feelings of numbness or weakness when attempting to lift things.
Can a Chiropractor Help with a Pinched Nerve in the Shoulder?
Chiropractic care is distinctly equipped for fixing pinched nerves and carries other benefits you may be unaware of. Because pinched nerves are a {curable} condition, chiropractic doesn’t require any addictive medications or invasive procedures to promote healing. An expert chiropractor will have the training and know-how to realign the spine and relieve pain and pressure.
There are many types of adjustments that chiropractors can utilize. Adjusting tools or special tables for drop techniques can be beneficial in releasing pain. Some soft tissue massage therapies can also provide some relief from pinched nerves.
In addition to adjustments, your chiropractor may use multiple supplementary therapies to minimize your pain. Commonly, they will use ice therapy to reduce inflammation of the affected area. They also may take time to create a health plan that provides a guide on maintaining proper health through nutrition and exercise.
How to Avoid Pinched Nerves
There’s no way to entirely prevent pinched nerves, but there are some ways to avoid them.
Stretching and Exercise
Exercise, depending on one’s body’s capabilities, is largely beneficial to overall health. Stretching before any exercise or physical activity is crucial to preventing pinched nerves. When engaging in activity, splints or braces can be used to maintain alignment and potentially prevent injury.
Ergonomic Workplaces
Depending on the type of work you do in your day-to-day, your spine may be degrading and losing structural integrity. Research ways to improve your workspace and create a more ergonomic place. Investing in proper chairs or keyboards can make a massive difference in office work. Wearing properly fitting footwear can be a game-changer when on your feet.
Sleep and Posture
Maintaining posture when standing and sleeping can contribute to better overall health and prevent pinched nerves. A slouched or hunched posture can place extra pressure on the spine and degrade the vertebrae.
About the Author: With over three decades of experience, Dr. Jere Jarrett is a highly educated and experienced chiropractor who serves Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas. He takes a “whole-body” approach to chiropractic care. Instead of treating symptoms, Dr. Jarrett looks for the underlying cause of pain and discomfort. Call 727-447-4647 to schedule an appointment!