Aligned Integrated Health
Pinched Nerve in the Neck: Symptoms, Causes and Relief
When Neck Pain Travels Into the Arm
A pinched nerve in the neck, called cervical radiculopathy, happens when a nerve root leaving the cervical spine is compressed or irritated, often by a disc or narrowing around the joint. It can cause neck pain that spreads into the shoulder, arm or hand, sometimes with numbness, tingling or weakness. Pinched nerves are one of the conditions we see as part of neck pain treatment in Scottsdale.
Here are the pinched nerve in neck symptoms to know, what causes them, and how a chiropractor for a pinched nerve in the neck approaches care.
- A neurological and movement exam of the neck and arms
- Gentle Pro Adjuster care with no cracking or twisting
- Posture and workstation changes that take pressure off the neck
Pinched Nerve in Neck Symptoms
Because each nerve in the neck supplies a specific part of the arm and hand, symptoms often follow a path rather than staying in one spot.
Key Features:
- Neck and Shoulder Pain: Pain in the neck that spreads to the shoulder blade or the top of the shoulder.
- Arm Pain or Tingling: Burning, aching, pins and needles, or numbness into the arm and fingers.
- Weakness: A weaker grip or trouble lifting the arm, which should be checked promptly.
Causes and Care for a Pinched Nerve in the Neck
Here is what usually causes a pinched nerve in the neck and how we approach it.
What Causes a Pinched Nerve in the Neck?
Common causes include a herniated or bulging disc, age-related narrowing around the joints where nerves exit the spine, and injuries such as whiplash. Forward head posture and long hours looking down at a screen can add pressure over time. Our article on tech neck covers screen-related neck strain.
Pinched Nerve in the Neck and Shoulder
A pinched nerve in the neck and shoulder pain often go together, and people sometimes assume the shoulder itself is the problem. Pain that is worse when you turn or tilt your head, or that comes with tingling into the hand, points toward the neck. We check both, since a shoulder problem and a neck problem can also exist at the same time.
Pinched Nerve Neck Relief: What Helps
Many people find some relief by avoiding long periods of looking down, setting screens at eye level, supporting the neck with a pillow that keeps it level, and taking breaks to move. Sudden heavy lifting and sleeping on the stomach often make symptoms worse.
How a Chiropractor Can Help a Pinched Nerve in the Neck
Dr. Dan starts with an exam that checks your reflexes, strength and sensation along with how your neck moves, and orders imaging when it is needed. Care may include gentle Pro Adjuster adjustments, which use precise, computer-assisted impulses rather than twisting the neck, massage therapy for tight neck and shoulder muscles, and chiropractic with rehabilitation to strengthen the muscles that support good neck posture.
When to Seek Medical Care First
Get prompt medical care for weakness that is getting worse, loss of coordination or balance, trouble with fine hand movements, symptoms in both arms or both legs, or neck pain after a significant injury. These can signal pressure on the spinal cord and need medical evaluation first.
Related Conditions We Treat in Scottsdale
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you go to a chiropractor for a pinched nerve in the neck?
Many people do. A chiropractor can assess how the neck moves and whether a nerve is involved, and Dr. Dan will refer you for medical care if your exam shows signs that need it.
Is it safe to get a pinched nerve in the neck adjusted?
At our clinic, neck care uses the Pro Adjuster, which delivers gentle, precise impulses without twisting or cracking. Your exam guides whether and how the neck is treated.
What does a pinched nerve in the neck feel like?
Often neck pain that spreads into the shoulder blade, arm or hand, sometimes with tingling, numbness or weakness.
Are you accepting new patients with neck pain in Scottsdale?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome. Call (480) 661-1977.
Get Help for a Pinched Nerve in Scottsdale, AZ
Aligned Integrated Health is at 10752 North 89th Place, Suite C130 in Scottsdale. Dr. Daniel J. Gerwig, D.C. has been practicing since 2001 and sees patients here himself. Most insurances are accepted and walk-ins are welcome.
New Patient Special. Includes the consultation, exam, report of findings and X-rays. See the current offer. Not valid for use with federally sponsored programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid.