What Does It Mean To Have Degenerative Joint Changes?

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

Have you had a joint problem and been told that you have "degeneration" or "degenerative changes"?  What exactly does this mean?  Is this something that can be fixed?  Let's take a closer look at two common types of degenerative changes and some potential management strategies that can be employed.

 

1.   Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is also known as osteoarthritis, and is the most common form of arthritis.  Weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees are most commonly affected, but DJD can affect any area of the body, including the hands, neck, and low back.

 

Most joints in our body have smooth cartilage surfaces that glide against each other, which allow two or more opposing bones to move freely and perform a specific set of movements.  A joint becomes "degenerated" or arthritic when there is wearing down of these cartilage surfaces, and a change in the composition of the bone underneath the cartilage occurs.  An arthritic joint does not mechanically function like it is supposed to.  This may result in a number of symptoms including:  muscle tightness and weakness, joint pain and stiffness, decreased ranges of motion, creaking in the joints, swelling, inflammation, and joint thickening (i.e. finger nodules, bunions).

 

2.    Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) specifically affects the spinal discs between each vertebrae and is also considered an arthritic disorder.  Spinal discs allow for some movement between vertebrae, and they also absorb compressive, tensile, and shearing loads with everyday activities.

 

      The centre of the disc, called the nucleus pulposis, is jelly-like and mostly made up of water.  The outside of the disc, called the annulus fibrosis, is tough and thick and contains the nucleus pulposis.  Over time, the water content of the spinal disc diminishes, causing it to dry out and become fibrotic (tough and brittle).  As the disc becomes fibrotic it can develop tears.  This breakdown can result in disc herniations, the development of bony spurs, and sciatica.

 

Risk factors/causes for DJD and DDD are typically multi-factorial, meaning that there is usually no single cause, but rather a combination of several different factors.  These risk factors/causes may include but are not limited to: advancing age, genetic predisposition, mechanical overload from occupational and recreational activities, direct injury to the affected region, cigarette smoking, lack of exercise, and being overweight or obese.

 

Degenerative changes can result in debilitating symptoms for some individuals and can be managed a number of ways.  Maintaining an ideal body weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise consisting of strength, flexibility, and endurance training can reduce the risk of pain and subsequent disability.  Treatment from licensed health professionals who utilize manual mobilization therapies, soft tissue therapy, electrotherapy, acupuncture, exercise and rehabilitation strategies can also significantly help to decrease pain by restoring normal muscle and joint motion, and promote healing of arthritic or injured areas.

 

In the event that you suffer from degenerative joint changes, you should contact a licensed health professional who deals in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

 

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

What Does It Mean To Have Degenerative Joint Changes?

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

Have you had a joint problem and been told that you have "degeneration" or "degenerative changes"?  What exactly does this mean?  Is this something that can be fixed?  Let's take a closer look at two common types of degenerative changes and some potential management strategies that can be employed.

 

1.    Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is also known as osteoarthritis, and is the most common form of arthritis.  Weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees are most commonly affected, but DJD can affect any area of the body, including the hands, neck, and low back.

 

Most joints in our body have smooth cartilage surfaces that glide against each other, which allow two or more opposing bones to move freely and perform a specific set of movements.  A joint becomes "degenerated" or arthritic when there is wearing down of these cartilage surfaces, and a change in the composition of the bone underneath the cartilage occurs.  An arthritic joint does not mechanically function like it is supposed to.  This may result in a number of symptoms including:  muscle tightness and weakness, joint pain and stiffness, decreased ranges of motion, creaking in the joints, swelling, inflammation, and joint thickening (i.e. finger nodules, bunions).

 

2.    Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) specifically affects the spinal discs between each vertebrae and is also considered an arthritic disorder.  Spinal discs allow for some movement between vertebrae, and they also absorb compressive, tensile, and shearing loads with everyday activities.

      The centre of the disc, called the nucleus pulposis, is jelly-like and mostly made up of water. The outside of the disc, called the annulus fibrosis, is tough and thick and contains the nucleus pulposis.  Over time, the water content of the spinal disc diminishes, causing it to dry out and become fibrotic (tough and brittle).  As the disc becomes fibrotic it can develop tears.  This breakdown can result in disc herniations, the development of bony spurs, and sciatica.

 

Risk factors/causes for DJD and DDD are typically multi-factorial, meaning that there is usually no single cause, but rather a combination of several different factors.  These risk factors/causes may include but are not limited to: advancing age, genetic predisposition, mechanical overload from occupational and recreational activities, direct injury to the affected region, cigarette smoking, lack of exercise, and being overweight or obese.

 

Degenerative changes can result in debilitating symptoms for some individuals and can be managed a number of ways.  Maintaining an ideal body weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise consisting of strength, flexibility, and endurance training can reduce the risk of pain and subsequent disability.  Treatment from licensed health professionals who utilize manual mobilization therapies, soft tissue therapy, electrotherapy, acupuncture, exercise and rehabilitation strategies can also significantly help to decrease pain by restoring normal muscle and joint motion, and promote healing of arthritic or injured areas.

 

In the event that you suffer from degenerative joint changes, you should contact a licensed health professional who deals in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

 

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

Understanding A Pinched Nerve In The Neck

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

About two-thirds of people will experience neck pain at some point in their lives.  Occasionally, neck pain can spread to involve other structures such as the upper back, shoulder, and arm regions.  Pain in these regions is often dismissed simply as muscle pain.  However, a “pinched nerve” originating from the neck can radiate pain to these nearby anatomical sites and be a significant source of discomfort.

The “cervical spine” is the medical name given to the region of the neck.  Nerve roots originate from the cervical spine on each side.  These nerves send off various branches that travel to distinct regions in the upper back and arms to supply strength to muscles and provide sensation/feeling.  The term “pinched nerve” is often used to describe a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation directly affecting any component of the nerve root(s) in the neck/cervical spine.

A “pinched nerve” in the neck can cause symptoms almost anywhere along the nerve pathway.  This may result in neck symptoms only, and/or symptoms that radiate into the chest, upper back, shoulder, arm, hand and finger regions.  The symptoms can vary widely and may include:  a cramping or achy feeling, tightness, burning or a sharp electric shock sensation, numbness, tingling, and arm muscle weakness.  The symptoms may start gradually and intensify over time.  Activities such as movement of the neck or shoulder, prolonged sitting or laying down, lifting, and even coughing or sneezing may aggravate the symptoms.

Below is a brief summary of three common causes of a "pinched nerve" in the neck:

1.     Spinal disc herniation/bulge – Spinal discs separate and cushion cervical vertebra.  Repetitive and cumulative loads or a heavy single load has the potential to cause a disc bulge or herniation, thereby causing a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation of the nerve root(s).  This most commonly occurs in adults aged 20-50.

2.     Degeneration and Osteoarthritis – The normal aging process causes cervical disc degeneration and osteoarthritis of the cervical joints.  The consequence of these processes is that mechanical irritation from bony spurs on the vertebrae along with inflammation can cause irritation of the nerve root(s).  This most commonly occurs in adults over 50.

3.     Cervical spinal stenosis – This condition may cause “pinched nerve” symptoms due to narrowing of the spinal canal and/or nerve pathways, which puts pressure on the nerve root(s) or spinal cord.  This most commonly occurs in adults over 60.  It is usually secondary to degeneration and osteoarthritis.

Other causes of a “pinched nerve” in the neck include: direct irritation of nerve tissue by overlying muscles; direct trauma or injury to the nerve root(s); and mechanical changes in the neck associated with poor postural habits (i.e. head poking forward in the sitting position).  Some common causes of symptoms that act like a “pinched nerve” in the neck include muscular trigger points, ligament sprains and arthritic joints from the neck, upper back, and shoulder regions.

Treatment for a “pinched nerve” in the neck will often be different depending on the underlying cause of the symptoms.  Therefore, it is important to obtain an accurate diagnosis.  A proper medical history, along with physical examination consisting of range of motion, strength, neurological and orthopaedic testing, along with diagnostic imaging (if necessary) should be performed to aid in the diagnosis.  It is extremely important to rule out rare causes of “pinched nerve” symptoms such as spinal tumors, fractures and infections.  Disorders of the esophagus, trachea (windpipe), heart and thyroid can cause symptoms that overlap with those of a “pinched nerve” in the neck.  These potential causes require appropriate medical referral when applicable.

There are natural and conservative treatment options available for those suffering from a "pinched nerve" in the neck.  These may include: mechanical traction, spinal manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue techniques, acupuncture, ice/heat application, electrotherapy, activity modification, postural education, and rehabilitative exercise.  A qualified health professional can determine the cause of your symptoms and prescribe appropriate therapy and rehabilitation strategies specifically for your circumstance.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

What Does It Mean To Have Degenerative Joint Changes?

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

Have you had a joint problem and been told that you have "degeneration" or "degenerative changes"?  What exactly does this mean?  Is this something that can be fixed?  Let's take a closer look at two common types of degenerative changes and some potential management strategies that can be employed.
 

 

1.    Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is also known as osteoarthritis, and is the most common form of arthritis.  Weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees are most commonly affected, but DJD can affect any area of the body, including the hands, neck, and low back.

 

Most joints in our body have smooth cartilage surfaces that glide against each other, which allow two or more opposing bones to move freely and perform a specific set of movements.  A joint becomes "degenerated" or arthritic when there is wearing down of these cartilage surfaces, and a change in the composition of the bone underneath the cartilage occurs.  An arthritic joint does not mechanically function like it is supposed to.  This may result in a number of symptoms including:  muscle tightness and weakness, joint pain and stiffness, decreased ranges of motion, creaking in the joints, swelling, inflammation, and joint thickening (i.e. finger nodules, bunions).

 

2.    Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) specifically affects the spinal discs between each vertebrae and

is also considered an arthritic disorder.  Spinal discs allow for some movement between vertebrae, and they also absorb compressive, tensile, and shearing loads with everyday activities.

      The centre of the disc, called the nucleus pulposis, is jelly-like and mostly made up of water.  The outside of the disc, called the annulus fibrosis, is tough and thick and contains the nucleus pulposis.  Over time, the water content of the spinal disc diminishes, causing it to dry out and become fibrotic (tough and brittle).  As the disc becomes fibrotic it can develop tears.  This breakdown can result in disc herniations, the development of bony spurs, and sciatica.

 

Risk factors/causes for DJD and DDD are typically multi-factorial, meaning that there is usually no single cause, but rather a combination of several different factors.  These risk factors/causes may include but are not limited to: advancing age, genetic predisposition, mechanical overload from occupational and recreational activities, direct injury to the affected region, cigarette smoking, lack of exercise, and being overweight or obese.

 

Degenerative changes can result in debilitating symptoms for some individuals and can be managed a

number of ways.  Maintaining an ideal body weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise consisting of strength, flexibility, and endurance training can reduce the risk of pain and subsequent disability.  Treatment from licensed health professionals who utilize manual mobilization therapies, soft tissue therapy, electrotherapy, acupuncture, exercise and rehabilitation strategies can also significantly help to decrease pain by restoring normal muscle and joint motion, and promote healing of arthritic or injured areas.

In the event that you suffer from degenerative joint changes, you should contact a licensed health professional who deals in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

 

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

Understanding Sciatica

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

 

The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body.  It is made up of five separate nerve roots originating from the low back region on each side, and runs from your pelvis through your buttock and hip area and down the back of each leg.  It controls many of the muscles in your legs and provides feeling to your thighs, lower legs and feet.

 

"Sciatica" is a common term used to describe any type of pain/symptom that radiates into the leg.  "True sciatica" occurs when there is a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation directly affecting any component of the sciatic nerve.  This differs from “referred” pain/symptoms which can arise from a bone, joint or muscle that can send pain/symptoms into the leg.

 

True sciatic symptoms may be felt almost anywhere along the nerve pathway.  These symptoms can radiate from the low back region, into the hip or buttock, and down the leg, into the calf, and even the toes.  The symptoms can vary widely and may include:  a cramping or achy feeling, tightness, burning or a sharp electric shock sensation, numbness, tingling, and leg muscle weakness.  The symptoms may start gradually and intensify over time.  Activities such as bending forward or to the side, walking, prolonged sitting or standing, and even coughing or sneezing may aggravate sciatica.

 

Below is a brief summary of three common causes of true sciatica:

 

1.    Spinal disc herniation/bulge – Spinal discs separate and cushion lumbar vertebra.  Repetitive and cumulative loads or a single heavy load has the potential to cause a disc bulge or herniation, thereby causing a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation of the nerve root(s).  This most commonly occurs in adults aged 20-50.

 

2.    Degeneration and Osteoarthritis – The normal aging process causes lumbar disc degeneration, osteoarthritis of lumbar joints, and occasionally vertebral slippage.  The consequence of these processes is that mechanical irritation from bony spurs and vertebrae along with inflammation can cause symptoms of sciatica.  This most commonly occurs in adults over 50.

 

3.    Lumbar spinal stenosis – This condition causes sciatica due to narrowing of the spinal canal and/or nerve pathways.  This puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots and causes neurovascular irritation.  This most commonly occurs in adults over 60.  It is usually secondary to degeneration and osteoarthritis.

 

Other causes of true sciatica include: direct irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle; direct trauma or injury to the sciatic nerve or nerve roots; and postural and mechanical changes associated with pregnancy.  Some common causes of sciatic-like symptoms or referred pain include: muscular trigger points and ligament sprains from the low back, hip, gluteal and pelvic regions; sacroiliac joint dysfunction; and arthritic low back, hip and knee joints.

 

Sciatica is a set of symptoms of a problem, rather than a diagnosis for what is irritating the nerve and causing the pain.  This is an important point to consider because the treatment for sciatica will often be different depending on the underlying cause of the symptoms.  Therefore, it is important to obtain an accurate diagnosis.  A proper medical history, along with physical examination consisting of range of motion, strength, neurological and orthopaedic testing, along with diagnostic imaging (if necessary) should be performed to aid in the diagnosis.  It is extremely important to rule out rare causes of sciatic symptoms such as spinal tumors and infections.  Individuals with a loss of bowel or bladder control may be experiencing cauda equina syndrome and should be referred for emergency care.

 

When sciatica strikes, there are conservative treatment options available.  These may include: mechanical traction, spinal manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue techniques, acupuncture, ice/heat application, electrotherapy, and rehabilitative exercise. A qualified health professional can determine the cause of your sciatica and prescribe appropriate therapy, exercises, and rehabilitation strategies specifically for your circumstance.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

 

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

What Does It Mean To Have Degenerative Joint Changes?

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)
 

Have you had a joint problem and been told that you have "degeneration" or "degenerative changes"?  What exactly does this mean?  Is this something that can be fixed?  Let's take a closer look at two common types of degenerative changes and some potential management strategies that can be employed.

 

1.    Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is also known as osteoarthritis, and is the most common form of arthritis.  Weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees are most commonly affected, but DJD can affect any area of the body, including the hands, neck, and low back.

 

Most joints in our body have smooth cartilage surfaces that glide against each other, which allow two or more opposing bones to move freely and perform a specific set of movements.  A joint becomes "degenerated" or arthritic when there is wearing down of these cartilage surfaces, and a change in the composition of the bone underneath the cartilage occurs.  An arthritic joint does not mechanically function like it is supposed to.  This may result in a number of symptoms including:  muscle tightness and weakness, joint pain and stiffness, decreased ranges of motion, creaking in the joints, swelling, inflammation, and joint thickening (i.e. finger nodules, bunions).

 

2.    Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) specifically affects the spinal discs between each vertebrae and is also considered an arthritic disorder.  Spinal discs allow for some movement between vertebrae, and they also absorb compressive, tensile, and shearing loads with everyday activities.

      The centre of the disc, called the nucleus pulposis, is jelly-like and mostly made up of water.  The outside of the disc, called the annulus fibrosis, is tough and thick and contains the nucleus pulposis.  Over time, the water content of the spinal disc diminishes, causing it to dry out and become fibrotic (tough and brittle).  As the disc becomes fibrotic it can develop tears.  This breakdown can result in disc herniations, the development of bony spurs, and sciatica.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Risk factors/causes for DJD and DDD are typically multi-factorial, meaning that there is usually no single cause, but rather a combination of several different factors.  These risk factors/causes may include but are not limited to: advancing age, genetic predisposition, mechanical overload from occupational and recreational activities, direct injury to the affected region, cigarette smoking, lack of exercise, and being overweight or obese.

Degenerative changes can result in debilitating symptoms for some individuals and can be managed a number of ways.  Maintaining an ideal body weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise consisting of strength, flexibility, and endurance training can reduce the risk of pain and subsequent disability.  Treatment from licensed health professionals who utilize manual mobilization therapies, soft tissue therapy, electrotherapy, acupuncture, exercise and rehabilitation strategies can also significantly help to decrease pain by restoring normal muscle and joint motion, and promote healing of arthritic or injured areas.

In the event that you suffer from degenerative joint changes, you should contact a licensed health professional who deals in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

 

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

Understanding Sciatica

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body.  It is made up of five separate nerve roots originating from the low back region on each side, and runs from your pelvis through your buttock and hip area and down the back of each leg.  It controls many of the muscles in your legs and provides feeling to your thighs, lower legs and feet.

"Sciatica" is a common term used to describe any type of pain/symptom that radiates into the leg.  "True sciatica" occurs when there is a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation directly affecting any component of the sciatic nerve.  This differs from “referred” pain/symptoms which can arise from a bone, joint or muscle that can send pain/symptoms into the leg.

True sciatic symptoms may be felt almost anywhere along the nerve pathway.  These symptoms can radiate from the low back region, into the hip or buttock, and down the leg, into the calf, and even the toes.  The symptoms can vary widely and may include:  a cramping or achy feeling, tightness, burning or a sharp electric shock sensation, numbness, tingling, and leg muscle weakness.  The symptoms may start gradually and intensify over time.  Activities such as bending forward or to the side, walking, prolonged sitting or standing, and even coughing or sneezing may aggravate sciatica.

Below is a brief summary of three common causes of true sciatica:

1.    Spinal disc herniation/bulge – Spinal discs separate and cushion lumbar vertebra.  Repetitive and cumulative loads or a single heavy load has the potential to cause a disc bulge or herniation, thereby causing a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation of the nerve root(s).  This most commonly occurs in adults aged 20-50.

2.   Degeneration and Osteoarthritis – The normal aging process causes lumbar disc degeneration, osteoarthritis of lumbar joints, and occasionally vertebral slippage.  The consequence of these processes is that mechanical irritation from bony spurs and vertebrae along with inflammation can cause symptoms of sciatica.  This most commonly occurs in adults over 50.

3.   Lumbar spinal stenosis – This condition causes sciatica due to narrowing of the spinal canal and/or nerve pathways.  This puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots and causes neurovascular irritation.  This most commonly occurs in adults over 60.  It is usually secondary to degeneration and osteoarthritis.

Other causes of "true sciatica" include: direct irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle; direct trauma or injury to the sciatic nerve or nerve roots; and postural and mechanical changes associated with pregnancy.  Some common causes of sciatic-like symptoms or "referred" pain include: muscular trigger points and ligament sprains from the low back, hip, gluteal and pelvic regions; sacroiliac joint dysfunction; and arthritic low back, hip and knee joints.

Sciatica is a set of symptoms of a problem, rather than a diagnosis for what is irritating the nerve and causing the pain.  This is an important point to consider because the treatment for sciatica will often be different depending on the underlying cause of the symptoms.  Therefore, it is important to obtain an accurate diagnosis.  A proper medical history, along with physical examination consisting of range of motion, strength, neurological and orhopaedic testing, along with diagnostic imaging (if necessary) should be performed to aid in the diagnosis.  It is extremely important to rule out rare causes of sciatic symptoms such as spinal tumors and infections.  Individuals with a loss of bowel or bladder control may be experiencing cauda equina syndrome and should be referred immediately for emergency care.

When sciatica strikes, there are conservative treatment options available.  These may include: mechanical traction, spinal manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue techniques, acupuncture, ice/heat application, electrotherapy, and rehabilitative exercise. A qualified health professional can determine the cause of your sciatica and prescribe appropriate therapy, exercises, and rehabilitation strategies specifically for your circumstance.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

Understanding A "Pinched Nerve" In The Neck

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

About two-thirds of people will experience neck pain at some point in their lives.  Occasionally, neck pain can spread to involve other structures such as the upper back, shoulder, and arm regions.  Pain in these regions is often dismissed simply as muscle pain.  However, a “pinched nerve” originating from the neck can radiate pain to these nearby anatomical sites and be a significant source of discomfort.

The “cervical spine” is the medical name given to the region of the neck.  Nerve roots originate from the cervical spine on each side.  These nerves send off various branches that travel to distinct regions in the upper back and arms to supply strength to muscles and provide sensation/feeling.  The term “pinched nerve” is often used to describe a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation directly affecting any component of the nerve root(s) in the neck/cervical spine.

A “pinched nerve” in the neck can cause symptoms almost anywhere along the nerve pathway.  This may result in neck symptoms only, and/or symptoms that radiate into the chest, upper back, shoulder, arm, hand and finger regions.  The symptoms can vary widely and may include:  a cramping or achy feeling, tightness, burning or a sharp electric shock sensation, numbness, tingling, and arm muscle weakness.  The symptoms may start gradually and intensify over time.  Activities such as movement of the neck or shoulder, prolonged sitting or laying down, lifting, and even coughing or sneezing may aggravate the symptoms.

Below is a brief summary of three common causes of a "pinched nerve" in the neck:

1.    Spinal disc herniation/bulge – Spinal discs separate and cushion cervical vertebra.  Repetitive and cumulative loads or a heavy single load has the potential to cause a disc bulge or herniation, thereby causing a mechanical and/or inflammatory irritation of the nerve root(s).  This most commonly occurs in adults aged 20-50.

2.    Degeneration and Osteoarthritis – The normal aging process causes cervical disc degeneration and osteoarthritis of the cervical joints.  The consequence of these processes is that mechanical irritation from bony spurs on the vertebrae along with inflammation can cause irritation of the nerve root(s).  This most commonly occurs in adults over 50.

3.    Cervical spinal stenosis – This condition may cause “pinched nerve” symptoms due to narrowing of the spinal canal and/or nerve pathways, which puts pressure on the nerve root(s) or spinal cord.  This most commonly occurs in adults over 60.  It is usually secondary to degeneration and osteoarthritis.

 

Other causes of a “pinched nerve” in the neck include: direct irritation of nerve tissue by overlying muscles; direct trauma or injury to the nerve root(s); and mechanical changes in the neck associated with poor postural habits (i.e. head poking forward in the sitting position).  Some common causes of symptoms that act like a “pinched nerve” in the neck include muscular trigger points, ligament sprains and arthritic joints from the neck, upper back, and shoulder regions.

Treatment for a “pinched nerve” in the neck will often be different depending on the underlying cause of the symptoms.  Therefore, it is important to obtain an accurate diagnosis.  A proper medical history, along with physical examination consisting of range of motion, strength, neurological and orthopaedic testing, along with diagnostic imaging (if necessary) should be performed to aid in the diagnosis.  It is extremely important to rule out rare causes of “pinched nerve” symptoms such as spinal tumors, fractures and infections.  Disorders of the esophagus, trachea (windpipe), heart and thyroid can cause symptoms that overlap with those of a “pinched nerve” in the neck.  These potential causes require appropriate medical referral when applicable.

There are natural and conservative treatment options available for those suffering from a "pinched nerve" in the neck.  These may include: mechanical traction, spinal manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue techniques, acupuncture, ice/heat application, electrotherapy, activity modification, postural education, and rehabilitative exercise.  A qualified health professional can determine the cause of your symptoms and prescribe appropriate therapy and rehabilitation strategies specifically for your circumstance.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.