What Does a Pinched Nerve Feel Like? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

What Is a Pinched Nerve?

A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues, such as muscles, bones, tendons, or spinal discs, place pressure on a nerve. This compression can disrupt normal nerve signaling and lead to symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Pinched nerves are common and often improve with conservative care, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Common Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve

Symptoms vary depending on which nerve is affected, but may include:

• Sharp, aching, or radiating pain
• Numbness or tingling (“pins and needles”)
• Muscle weakness in the affected area
• A sensation that a limb has “fallen asleep”
• Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions

Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly after injury or repetitive strain.

What a Pinched Nerve Can Feel Like by Location

Pinched Nerve in the Neck (Cervical Radiculopathy)

• Neck stiffness or pain
• Tingling or pain radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand
• Weakness in the arm or hand
• Limited range of motion

Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back (Lumbar Radiculopathy)

• Lower back or hip pain
• Radiating pain down one leg (often called sciatica)
• Numbness or tingling in the foot or toes
• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

Pinched Nerve in the Upper Back or Chest (Thoracic Radiculopathy)

• Pain along the ribs or chest wall
• Upper back discomfort or weakness

Chest pain can have many causes. Seek urgent medical care if chest pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea.

Pinched Nerve in the Wrist or Elbow

• Tingling, burning, or numbness in the hand or fingers
• Hand weakness or reduced grip strength
• Pain in the wrist, forearm, or elbow

Common examples include carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar nerve compression.

Common Causes of a Pinched Nerve

Pinched nerves may result from:

• Herniated or bulging spinal discs
• Bone spurs related to arthritis
• Repetitive motion or overuse
• Poor posture or prolonged sitting
• Sports injuries or trauma
• Obesity, which increases pressure on nerves
• Pregnancy-related swelling or fluid retention
• Conditions such as diabetes that can affect nerve health

Can a Pinched Nerve Affect Other Areas?

Yes. Although the compression occurs in one location, symptoms often radiate along the nerve pathway. For example:

• A neck nerve issue may cause arm or hand symptoms
• A lumbar nerve issue may affect the leg or foot
• Wrist nerve compression may affect finger sensation

Treatment Options for a Pinched Nerve

Many pinched nerves improve with conservative treatment, including:

• Rest and activity modification
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (when appropriate)
• Physical therapy to improve posture, flexibility, and strength
• Heat or cold therapy to reduce discomfort

In more persistent cases, additional treatments such as corticosteroid injections may be considered. Surgery is generally reserved for cases involving significant or worsening weakness, loss of function, or symptoms that do not improve with conservative care.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Consider seeking medical evaluation if:

• Symptoms last more than a few days
• Pain or numbness worsens
• You develop muscle weakness or coordination problems
• Symptoms interfere with daily activities

Early evaluation can help identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

How BASS Medical Group Can Help

BASS Medical Group’s Primary Care Providers and specialists can evaluate nerve-related symptoms, recommend appropriate imaging or therapy, and help develop a treatment plan focused on recovery and function.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit bassmedicalgroup.com or contact your local BASS office.