A pinched nerve happens when surrounding bone, disc, muscle or other tissue puts pressure on a nerve. In the neck it can send pain or tingling into the shoulder and arm; in the low back it can travel into the leg. Dr. Todd Luther and Dr. Kaylee English work to take pressure off the nerve and calm the tissues around it.
Signs of a Pinched Nerve
- Sharp, burning or aching pain that radiates outward
- Numbness or tingling in the hand, arm, leg or foot
- Muscle weakness in the affected area
- A feeling that a hand or foot has “fallen asleep”
How We Help
- An exam to locate where the nerve is being irritated
- Gentle Diversified and drop table adjustments to improve joint motion
- Therapeutic massage and soft-tissue work for tight muscles that add to the pressure
- Posture and workstation tips to keep the problem from returning
Related: Neck Pain · Shoulder Pain · Sciatica
Seek emergency care right away if back or leg pain comes with loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin area, or sudden, worsening weakness in a leg.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
To find where a nerve is being pinched, we trace your symptoms back to the spine. Your chiropractor will ask where you feel pain, numbness or tingling, then test neck or back movement, grip and muscle strength, reflexes and sensation. That pattern usually narrows down the area involved. Treatment typically starts the same day with gentle adjustments and soft-tissue work, plus a few things you can do at home.
Pinched Nerve FAQ
How long does a pinched nerve take to heal?
Mild cases can ease within days to a few weeks. When a disc or long-standing joint problem is involved, it can take longer. Steady, consistent care and good habits at home make a real difference.
Why does my hand or foot tingle when the problem is in my neck or back?
Nerves leave the spine and travel all the way to your hands and feet, so pressure near the spine can be felt far away. That’s why we examine the spine even when the symptoms are in an arm or leg.
When should I see a medical doctor instead?
Get medical care quickly if weakness is getting worse, if you lose coordination, or if symptoms affect both arms or both legs.
Schedule a Visit in Bellingham
Barkley Massage & Chiropractic is at 3114 Newmarket Street in Barkley Village. Book online or call or text (360) 656-5131. We bill most major health insurance plans, plus auto (PIP) and L&I claims. See Pricing & Insurance.