You may have experienced a momentarily tingling sensation or a dull ache in your shoulders after a long day at work or an intense workout. What do you do when that pain doesn’t go away? What do you do if that pain becomes worse and also causes numbness and weakness? If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may be experiencing a pinched nerve in your shoulder. A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by the surrounding bone, cartilage, muscle or tendon. In the shoulder, the compression can happen in the neck, the upper spine or the shoulder itself. The pressure on the nerve keeps it from its normal function and can cause a variety of other symptoms. 

Symptoms of a pinched nerve in the shoulder

A pinched nerve in your shoulder can present in a number of ways. Common symptoms of a pinched nerve in the shoulder can include:

• Sharp or burning pain.
• Numbness or tingling.
• Muscle weakness.
• Decreased range of motion.
• Abnormal reflexes.
• Frequent pins-and-needles feeling in the hand.

While a pinched nerve in your shoulder can be uncomfortable, not all symptoms warrant urgent medical attention. However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden weakness or paralysis.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control. 
• Loss of fine motor control.
• Drooping features and slurred speech.
• Severe pain. 
• Confusion.

These symptoms can signal that there is a more serious condition going on. 

What can cause a pinched nerve in the shoulder?

Several culprits can cause a pinched nerve in the shoulder. Common causes can include:

• Herniated discs.
• Arthritis.
• Poor posture.
• Injuries.
• Tendinitis.
• Torn cartilage.

What can happen if you don’t treat a pinched nerve in the shoulder?

It’s important that you don’t neglect a pinched nerve in your shoulder. If left untreated, the compressed nerve can eventually cause chronic pain, muscle weakness or a loss of function. In severe cases, it could cause permanent nerve damage. This nerve damage can affect your ability to do everyday tasks and affect your overall quality of life. 

Can a pinched nerve in the shoulder be prevented?

Some factors of a pinched nerve cannot be prevented, such as aging or genetic predisposition. However, there are steps you can take to help reduce the chances of developing a pinched shoulder nerve, including:

• Maintain good posture.
• Stay active.
• Lift properly.
• Take breaks.

Treatment options for a pinched nerve in the shoulder

When you are experiencing a pinched nerve in the shoulder, you want to find an effective treatment quickly. Prompt treatment can help alleviate pain, restore mobility and improve your overall quality of life. The treatment approach can vary depending on your specific condition and symptoms:

• Rest and activity modification — When you have a pinched nerve in the shoulder, resting the affected shoulder can be beneficial. Modifying your movements can help prevent additional strain on your shoulder. 
• Medication — Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. If your pain is more severe, your health care provider may prescribe stronger medications. 
• Physical therapy — Physical therapy can play a significant role in the treatment of a pinched shoulder nerve. Physical therapists can use a variety of techniques that are intended to help relieve nerve compression, reduce pain and improve shoulder function. 
• Heat and cold therapy — Applying a heating pad or ice pack to the affected area can help alleviate symptoms of a pinched nerve in the shoulder. Heat can help to relax muscles and promote circulation. Cold can help numb the area and reduce swelling. You can alternate between treatments or use whichever you find works best for your situation.
• Corticosteroid injections — If you have a more severe case of a pinched shoulder nerve, your medical provider may recommend a corticosteroid injection. This injection is administered directly to the affected area. It can help provide significant (but usually temporary) pain relief and reduce inflammation. 
• Posture correction — Proper posture can help reduce your chances of developing a pinched nerve and can help alleviate further irritation. 
• Splinting or bracing — Wearing a splint or brace can help immobilize your shoulder and give it time to rest while supported. This can help reduce strain on the nerve. It is important to follow medical guidance to help prevent worsening muscle weakness.
• Surgery — In severe cases that haven’t responded to more conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary. This severity could be due to structural issues like bone spurs or herniated discs. Surgery can help relieve pressure on the pinched nerve, which can allow it to heal properly. 

How can physical therapy help a pinched nerve in the shoulder?

Physical therapy can be an incredibly beneficial treatment for the symptoms of a pinched nerve in the shoulder. Physical therapists use a variety of techniques that are designed to help alleviate nerve compression and help restore normal shoulder function. Techniques may include:

• Manual therapy.
• Therapeutic exercises. 
• Electrical stimulation. 
• Neural gliding exercises. 
• Dry needling. 
• Total motion release.
• Joint mobilization.

Pinched nerves can be effectively managed with the right approach. It’s important to discuss with your health care provider or specialist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition and needs. With the right treatment, you can be on your way to resuming your normal activities with more ease. 

Continuum Wellness can help you on your path to recovery from a pinched nerve in the shoulder

At Continuum Wellness, we believe that healing is a journey. Our dedicated team of expert physical therapists are committed to helping you every step of the way. They will design a customized, evidence-based treatment plan to help you achieve your wellness goals. In our clinics, you will find a supportive environment designed with your health in mind. Victories, big and small, are steps to help bring you closer to pain relief, restored mobility, improved strength and a better quality of life. 

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.