How physical therapists can treat a pinched nerve in your neck

A common cause of neck pain in many adults is a pinched nerve in your spine. Your spine is supposed to protect the nerves running through it, but some spinal conditions can cause pain in these nerves.

Spinal conditions in the neck frequently cause cervical radiculopathy, which is more commonly known as a pinched nerve. As the name suggests, a pinched nerve is a nerve that has been constricted by some type of pressure outside of the spinal cord. This usually occurs as the result of a herniated disc or bone spurs. 

Pinched nerves are rarely life threatening, but the pain can spread into your shoulders and arms and limit your range of motion. 

Treating a pinched nerve in your neck with physical therapy

Treatments for a pinched nerve varies depending on the severity and cause of the pain. In some cases, you might try medication to manage the pain and inflammation, but this is usually not a permanent solution. Many people are able to find treatment for their pinched nerves with physical therapy.

Physical therapy treatments for a pinched nerve in the neck include:

• Stretches and exercises — Stretches and exercises improve the flexibility and strength of the muscles in your neck. Stronger and more flexible muscles provide better support for the spine, which can reduce pressure on the nerves in your neck.
• Soft tissue mobilization — Soft tissue mobilization is a form of manual therapy, which involves the use of the physical therapist’s hands to mobilize tissue and joints. Soft tissue mobilization in the neck can reduce tension in the muscles that may be contributing to the pressure in your spine. It also helps improve your circulation in the neck.
• Joint mobilization — Joint mobilization is another form of manual therapy that focuses on mobilizing the joints. One joint mobilization technique for a pinched nerve in the neck is cervical traction. In this treatment, physical therapists can reduce pressure in the spine by gently pulling the vertebrae apart from one another to create space for blood flow and the release of pressure.
• Posture education — Poor posture can cause or worsen the pain in your neck. Physical therapists can help you improve your posture so the way you sit, stand and sleep doesn’t cause additional pain in your neck. 

Visit Advent Physical Therapy for pinched nerve in neck treatment

If you suffer from a pinched nerve in the neck and are ready for treatment, our team at Advent Physical Therapy is here for you. Contact our team today for more information about pinched nerve in neck treatment or to schedule an initial appointment.