A nerve is a long collection of specialized cells called neurons, that receive and transmit sensory information from the brain to the body via the spinal cord. Movement, touch, and pain information is all transmitted through our nerves.
Nerve compression syndrome is a disorder that occurs when pressure is placed on a nerve, “pinching” it and causing a sensation of pain at the site of compression or along the affected nerve, tingling, loss of sensation, or weakness.
A nerve can become compressed for many different reasons and during many different activities, mainly due to repetitive movements, keeping the body in one position for an extended period, broken bones, inflammation, another existing condition in the body (diabetes, cancer, and obesity are just a few examples), and the nerve pressing or being pressed onto another anatomical structure (like a ligament, bone, or tendon).
Depending on the type of nerve and area of the nerve being compressed, a patient may experience a different kind of pain in a different part of the body.
Many times, mild forms of nerve compression syndrome go away by just avoiding activities that cause discomfort and limiting unnecessary movements. If pain or discomfort persists, a pain specialist may prescribe conservative treatments, including anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, pain management medication, injections to reduce pain, and even surgery for the most severe cases.
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MedStar Washington Hospital Center
110 Irving St. NW Washington, DC 20010
MedStar Health: Medical Center at Lafayette Centre
1133 21st St., NW Building 2 Washington, DC, 20036
MedStar Health: Medical Center at Brandywine
13950 Brandywine Rd. Brandywine, MD 20613