Unfortunately nerves can become compressed or damaged which results in the nerve being unable to function efficiently, as a result we may feel altered sensation such as tingling / numbness / pain / coldness. Alternatively we may lose some of the strength in our muscles which can become to waste away.
One of the most well known ‘trapped nerves’ is the sciatic nerve which causes symptoms of sciatica.
Nerves are commonly trapped in the back by bulging discs between your spine. They may also be trapped by tight muscles, or compressed by bones. Occasionally (rarely) nerves can become compressed due to more sinister causes such as growths, tumours or cysts.
Trapped nerves typically feel acutely painful and often have feel like electric shock or shooting pain. Occasionally they cause numbness, tingling or even wasting of the muscles. Pain is usually felt in the leg, foot, arm, hand or shoulder blade.
Treatment depends on the cause of the trapped nerve however usually manual therapy such as osteopathy, chiropractic, physiotherapy or massage can help to reduce the pressure on the nerve. Your GP may prescribe anti-inflammatory or pain relief medication. Patients rarely require surgery for trapped nerves.