Many people experience sharp pain, tingling, or numbness and wonder, “Do I have a pinched nerve?” or “Can a chiropractor help with a pinched nerve?” A pinched nerve can be painful and disruptive, affecting your ability to move, work, or sleep comfortably.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, located in Midtown Manhattan near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we specialize in natural, non-invasive treatments for pinched nerves, helping patients relieve pain and restore function without relying on medication or surgery.
What Is a Pinched Nerve?
A pinched nerve (nerve compression) occurs when a nerve is squeezed or irritated by surrounding tissues, such as bones, muscles, tendons, or herniated discs. This compression disrupts nerve function, causing pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the affected area.
Pinched nerves can occur anywhere in the body, but they are most common in the:
• Neck (cervical spine) – Can cause pain, headaches, or numbness in the arms
• Lower back (lumbar spine) – Can lead to sciatic nerve pain or leg weakness
• Shoulders and arms – Can cause tingling and weakness in the hands
• Wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome) – Can lead to numbness and hand dysfunction
If left untreated, a pinched nerve can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain or permanent nerve damage. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
What Causes a Pinched Nerve?
Pinched nerves can develop from various musculoskeletal issues, including:
1. Herniated or Bulging Discs
Spinal discs act as cushions between vertebrae. When a disc herniates or bulges, it can press against nearby nerves, causing pain and inflammation.
• Common in the neck and lower back
• Often leads to sciatica or cervical radiculopathy (nerve pain in the arms)
2. Spinal Misalignment (Subluxation)
A misaligned vertebra (subluxation) can put pressure on a nerve, leading to irritation and dysfunction.
• Can result from poor posture, injuries, or repetitive stress
• Chiropractic adjustments help restore alignment and relieve pressure
3. Muscle Tension and Spasms
Tight muscles can compress nerves by creating tension around the spine or joints.
• Often caused by stress, poor posture, or overuse
• Common in the neck, shoulders, and lower back
4. Arthritis and Bone Spurs
Arthritis can cause inflammation and bony growths (bone spurs) that narrow nerve pathways, leading to compression and irritation.
• Most common in the spine and joints
• Can lead to chronic nerve pain and stiffness
5. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Wrist Nerve Compression)
Repetitive hand movements (typing, texting, sports) can compress the median nerve in the wrist, leading to:
✅ Tingling and numbness in the fingers
✅ Weak grip strength
✅ Worsening pain at night
Chiropractic care can help relieve wrist compression and restore nerve function.
Common Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve
Symptoms depend on which nerve is affected and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.
• Sharp, burning, or radiating pain (especially in the arms or legs)
• Tingling or numbness in hands, feet, or affected areas
• Muscle weakness or difficulty moving the limb
• Feeling of pins and needles in affected regions
• Pain that worsens with movement or certain positions
If your symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen over time, it’s essential to seek professional care to prevent long-term nerve damage.
Can Chiropractic Care Help a Pinched Nerve?
Yes! Chiropractic care is a safe, non-invasive treatment that can:
✅ Relieve nerve compression by correcting spinal misalignments
✅ Reduce inflammation in surrounding muscles and joints
✅ Improve posture and movement patterns to prevent recurrence
✅ Enhance circulation and nerve function for faster healing
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we take a comprehensive approach to treating pinched nerves, using spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and postural correction to restore function and relieve pain.
Chiropractic Treatments for Pinched Nerves
1. Spinal Adjustments (Chiropractic Manipulation)
A gentle spinal adjustment can help realign vertebrae, reduce pressure on nerves, and restore normal nerve function.
• Effective for herniated discs, subluxations, and joint restrictions
• Helps reduce pain and inflammation naturally
2. Soft Tissue Therapy (Graston Technique, Myofascial Release)
Tight muscles can compress nerves, so muscle therapy helps release tension.
• Graston Technique: Uses metal tools to break down scar tissue and improve mobility
• Myofascial Release: Relieves tight fascia that may be pressing on nerves
• Trigger Point Therapy: Targets knots and muscle tightness
These therapies help reduce pain and restore nerve function faster.
3. Postural Corrections and Ergonomic Training
Poor posture can increase spinal stress, worsening nerve compression.
• Chiropractors assess posture and recommend ergonomic improvements
• Helps prevent recurring nerve issues from daily activities
4. Decompression Therapy for Herniated Discs
Spinal decompression therapy gently stretches the spine, creating space between discs and reducing nerve compression.
• Beneficial for sciatica and bulging discs
• Can relieve chronic back and neck pain
5. Exercises and Stretches for Nerve Pain Relief
Strengthening supporting muscles can prevent nerve irritation.
✅ Neck stretches for cervical pinched nerves
✅ Core strengthening exercises for lower back support
✅ Wrist mobility drills for carpal tunnel syndrome
A customized rehab plan ensures long-term relief and nerve function restoration.
How Long Does It Take for a Pinched Nerve to Heal?
Recovery time depends on the severity of the nerve compression and treatment approach.
• Mild cases: May improve within a few days to a week
• Moderate cases: Can take 2–6 weeks with consistent care
• Severe cases: May require several months, especially if related to disc herniations or arthritis
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we design individualized treatment plans to help you heal as quickly and safely as possible.
When to Seek Chiropractic Care for a Pinched Nerve
You should see a chiropractor if you experience:
❌ Persistent pain lasting more than a few days
❌ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
❌ Pain that worsens with movement or certain positions
❌ Loss of mobility or reduced range of motion
Ignoring a pinched nerve can lead to chronic pain or permanent nerve damage, so early treatment is key!
Final Thoughts: Find Relief from Pinched Nerve Pain
A pinched nerve can be debilitating, but chiropractic care offers a safe and effective way to relieve pain, restore mobility, and prevent future issues. Whether your nerve compression is due to poor posture, herniated discs, or muscle tension, our team at Unity Chiropractic Wellness can help you find lasting relief through spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises.
If you’re experiencing nerve pain in your neck, back, arms, or legs, schedule an appointment at Unity Chiropractic Wellness today! Conveniently located in Midtown East near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we’re here to help you feel your best.