Trapped Nerve

A trapped nerve or pinched nerve occurs when an excessive amount of pressure is applied to a nerve or the surrounding tissues. Nerves act as cables throughout the body, allowing for electrical and chemical signals to pass through them, which in turn controls things such as sensation and movement. The pressure causes the symptoms by disrupting the nerves normal function. 

Symptoms of a trapped or pinched nerve include pain which can be sharp, aching or burning in nature. The pain may radiate to other parts of the body. Pins and needles, tingling, decreased feeling and numbness are a good indication that a nerve is compressed somewhere along the line, blocking some of the signals from the brain from getting through. A sudden onset or persistently constant symptoms an loss of bladder or bowel control could indicate a medical emergency and help should be sought accordingly. 

Your osteopath based at the London Osteopath clinic is highly trained to diagnose the location of the trapped nerve. A tailor-made plan will be put in place to work towards lessening symptoms and allowing you to return to your normal everyday activities without the debilitating feeling of pain and numbness. 

Your osteopath will combine any number of techniques and interventions to assist you on the road to recovery, these can include, but are not limited to stretching and strengthening exercises (including a personalised take-home program), massage to release tensions and release any tightness, joint manipulation and articulation to free up joints. 

You may also find that Pilates classes, which are available at the three London Osteopath clinics may be of benefit to you. Pilates is an effective means of building up strength without compromising on alignment or flaring up injuries. The NHS website states that Pilates has multiple health benefits and can be used to develop whole-body strength and flexibility which will in turn provide proper body alignment to tackle any underlying body imbalances that may have lead to your trapped nerve. Complete beginners up to expert level are welcome, the classes are a great way to start your fitness journey or to take your fitness to the next level. Your osteopath will be able to talk you through if these classes are appropriate to assist you in the management of your condition.