A pinched nerve: numbness, tingling and where it comes from
A pinched nerve is the everyday phrase for nerve irritation, and it can happen at the spine or further along the limb. Where the irritation is happening determines what helps, so the examination works out the level before anything is treated.
Who this page is for
Adults with tingling, numbness, burning or weakness following a defined path into an arm or leg.
Why people come in
These are reasons patients give for booking. They are not a diagnosis, and only an examination can tell you what is happening in your case.
- Pins and needles down one arm or leg
- Numbness in a specific patch of skin
- Weakness in the grip or the foot
- Symptoms that change with certain neck or back positions
How the evaluation works
Neurological testing, orthopedic testing and movement assessment are used to locate the level of irritation and to identify presentations that need referral.
How we may approach care
Care may combine adjustments, soft tissue therapy, decompression where indicated and nerve-friendly exercise, alongside advice on positions to avoid meanwhile.
What a first visit may involve
Expect careful questions about exactly where the symptoms travel, then examination and explanation.
Safety and when to seek other care
Progressive weakness, muscle wasting, symptoms in both limbs, or any loss of bladder or bowel control require urgent medical assessment.
Questions patients ask
How long does a pinched nerve take to settle?
It varies with the cause and severity, and we will not quote a timeline before examining you.
Is numbness serious?
Numbness with weakness that is getting worse needs prompt medical assessment.
Where this care is offered
The clinical explanation above is the same at every clinic. Location links add only what is specific to that clinic.
Clinical review
Clinician review pending. This page has not yet been signed off by a named Inspine provider, and no reviewer is claimed until one confirms it. See our provider profiles.
Take the first step.
Call the clinic nearest you, or send a request and our team will follow up to agree a time.