Pinched Nerve in Shoulder? Know Your Treatment Options.
Shoulder pain is a very common complaint. And, this discomfort can develop from a variety of different orthopedic sources, such as arthritis, tendinitis, torn cartilage—and more. However, perhaps the most common cause of shoulder pain is a pinched nerve. (In fact, medical experts often refer to a pinched nerve in the shoulder as cervical radiculopathy.) Similarly, a nerve in the shoulder may become compressed for any number of reasons. For example, bone spurs—bony protrusions which form around our spinal discs—can pinch the nerves that radiate outward from our spine. Furthermore, our spinal discs act as shock absorbers between our vertebrae. Yet, they tend to weaken with age and overuse. When this happens, it can lead to the formation of bone spurs that impinge upon our spinal nerves. If a nerve in the neck becomes pinched, then shoulder pain can occur. NJ Spine and Ortho can help you relieve this pain. Causes of a Pinched Nerve A pinched nerve in the shoulder arises from material pressing on the nerves that extend outward from the spinal column and toward the neck and shoulder. However, the source of this encroaching material can vary. Outcroppings of bone, disc protrusions, or inflamed soft tissues can all impinge upon our nerves. When it comes to pinched nerves in the shoulder, we are referring to the cervical spine specifically. In the cervical spine, there are nerves that extend out to transmit signals to and from the brain, as well as to other parts of the body. Some common causes of pinched nerves in the shoulder include: Herniated Discs: Sometimes, discs may distend outward, pressing on adjacent nerves. This type of pain is more noticeable during activities such as twisting, bending, and lifting. Disc Degeneration: As time goes on, the gel-like discs located between each vertebra will wear down. Because of this, the bones will move closer together, rubbing against one another or the adjacent nerves. In some instances, a person’s body will try to overcompensate for this with the formation of bone spurs. These may also press on the nerves in the shoulder. Shoulder Injuries: When a person experiences an injury from a sports activity or accident, it may lead to a herniated disc or tissue inflammation. Both of these conditions can lead to anatomical material pressing on nearby nerves. Your doctor will be able to determine the cause of your injury based on physical examinations and imaging tests. If you have any questions, please refer to your doctor as he or she will provide you with any information that you need. Signs & Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve in the Shoulder If you have shoulder pain, then you will need a doctor to perform a thorough physical examination of your neck and shoulder. Doing so should diagnose the underlying problem. That being said, certain signs and symptoms may help your doctor diagnose your condition with relative ease. A pinched nerve typically causes pain, numbness, or discomfort in the shoulder area. Other symptoms that may accompany these
