Many individuals wonder if they have a pinched nerve in their neck when they have neck pain. Pain in the upper trap region or arm is common in those with neck pain. The question at hand though is, what is the source of the pain?

To answer this question more information must be gathered. We must fully understand all that is going on to know for sure. This is done through a thorough assessment.

Lets begin with type of pain. Most often nerve pain is described as sharp, shooting, or burning. At times some will report a numbness or tingling sensation traveling down an arm or near the shoulder blade. Dull or aching descriptor words tend not to be used to describe a pinched nerve. Next there is the pattern of pain. Often nerve pain will follow a very specific pathway called a dermatome. These dermatomes are associated with specific nerve pathways and is one way medical professionals can begin to track what might be the source of pain. Pain that is broad, diffuse, or hard to localize tends to have another origin.

Other key elements when trying to determine if a pinched nerve is happening include, does the person have loss of sensation or strength in a particular pattern? If so, then a pinched nerve rises up the level of suspicion chart.

Now there are other reasons any of these findings may be present, however they do tend to suggest some nerve related involvement.

The presentation elements described above certainly are not the whole story but a great start. Further questions surrounding positions or movements that make the pain worse or better as well as time of day factors and more will be considered.

The next question asked tends to be well if it is a pinched nerve, don’t I need imaging?

In most cases the answer is no, especially initially. If the problem can be treated quickly (and in most instances it can), then imaging is not necessary. In fact, imaging can actually be harmful as people will see normal age changes as something more severe. The only reasons for imaging are if other conservative means have not resolved the problem and the thoughts of injections or surgery come into play. However, these invasive thoughts really should not be had until absolutely necessary.

The last question often asked is what can be done?

Understand there is not only ONE solution. Ultimately the correct answer will be what makes the person’s pain less. The solution may include hands-on care, active exercise, traction, dry needling, or other treatment elements. Most likely it will be some combination of elements that in concert reduce a person’s pain.

Concerned this is you or someone you know? Click the following LINK to request more information on how to successfully treat a pinched nerve.