Chronic pain can drastically reduce your quality of life. The team at May Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, located in East Hartford, CT, has devoted themselves to helping their clients live without discomfort. They say one common complaint stems from a pinched nerve that’s causing back or neck pain. But what exactly is a pinched nerve, and how can rehabilitation help you?

What Is a Pinched Nerve?

Nerves begin in your brain and run down your spinal cord. These fibers send messages throughout your body, like telling your brain you’re full after eating. A pinched nerve occurs when pressure is applied to the nerve, causing pain in and around the area. The discomfort can vary in severity but should always be checked out by a professional health care provider. 

Common Causes

Pinched nerves can be caused by bones, muscles, or tendons. For example, the body breaks down as it ages. This leaves the nerves more exposed to potential compression by the surrounding spinal discs. Younger patients who experience bulging or herniated discs may also suffer from pinched nerves. The condition can also be caused by repetitive motion. Constant movement of the same muscles and ligaments may lead to swelling, which can put added pressure on the nerves. 

How Rehabilitation Helps

Rehabilitation professionals, such as physical therapists and chiropractors, can effectively treat a troublesome pinched nerve. Relief will likely begin with a combination of hot and cold therapy to manage pain and reduce any inflammation impacting the nerve. Later appointments will involve strength training so the muscles can better support the body’s skeleton. Chiropractic methods may be utilized to realign the spine if misplaced discs are causing compression, while massage therapy addresses the surrounding muscles.

It’s important to pay attention to how your back and neck are feeling. If you believe you have a pinched nerve, see a rehabilitation professional right away to reduce the risk of long-term damage. If you need help in the East Hartford area, look to the experts at May Chiropractic & Rehabilitation for high-quality care. Give the staff a call at (860) 568-3900, or request an appointment online.