A pinched nerve and spinal decompression are closely related topics, especially when dealing with spine-related issues like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. Chiropractors are most often seen to evaluate and administer treatment.
What Is a Pinched Nerve?
A pinched nerve happens when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by:
● Surrounding bones (vertebrae),
● Discs (especially if herniated or bulging),
● Muscles, or
● Other tissues (like ligaments).
Common Causes in the Spine:
● Herniated disc pressing on a nerve root
● Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
● Poor posture or injury
Symptoms:
● Pain (sharp, burning, or radiating)
● Numbness or tingling (often down arms or legs)
● Muscle weakness
● Sciatica (if in lower back)
What Is Spinal Decompression?
Spinal decompression is a method to relieve pressure on pinched nerves.
Often done through spinal decompression therapy, which involves:
● A motorized traction table or similar device
● Gentle stretching of the spine
● Goals: Change spinal pressure, improve disc healing, and reduce nerve compression
Used for:
● Herniated or bulging discs
● Degenerative disc disease
● Sciatica
● Posterior facet syndrome
Pros:
● Non-invasive
● Can relieve pain and improve mobility
See a Chiropractor if:
● Pain lasts longer than a few weeks
● You have traveling of symptoms into arms/legs
● You experience weakness or bowel/bladder issues (could indicate cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency)
Takeaway
A pinched nerve can often be managed with non-surgical treatments, including spinal decompression therapy & Chiropractic.