How Acupuncture Can Help With Pinched Nerves

Understanding Pinched Nerves: Causes and Symptoms

Pinched nerves occur when soft tissues in the body apply too much pressure to an individual nerve or bundle of nerves. According to the Mayo Clinic, pressure from bones, cartilage, tendons, or muscles can lead to pinched nerves, which means that pinched nerves can occur anywhere in the body.

Some of the most common symptoms of pinched nerves include:

• Pain radiates from a particular area of the body.
• Numbness or a tingling sensation.
• Muscle weakness.
• Loss of feeling in the affected area.
• Frequent sensation of a limb or extremity "falling asleep."

The type of pain or discomfort that you feel may depend on the area of the body where the nerve is pinched. For example, a pinched nerve in the wrist may lead to numbness or tingling in the hand, while a pinched nerve in the lower back could lead to radiating pain down the spine and the legs.



If the pain becomes unbearable or the discomfort lasts for a significant period of time, you may want to consider acupuncture for pinched nerves.

How Can Acupuncture Help a Pinched Nerve?

Acupuncture therapy is a holistic treatment that is rooted in ancient tradition. While its effectiveness is still quite mysterious, it's undeniable that acupuncture offers a wide range of benefits. Acupuncture has been proven to be a reliable treatment option for several conditions, including vertigo and pinched nerves.

During an acupuncture treatment, fine needles are strategically placed near meridians on the body to restore the flow of energy and improve harmony among bodily systems. Given the fact that pinched nerves occur when the soft tissues in the body are swollen or applied too much pressure, it's not surprising that acupuncture can help alleviate the pain and discomfort that is caused by a pinched nerve. When performed by an experienced acupuncture therapist, this treatment option can help improve bodily function and reduce the pressure that is being applied by the soft tissues.

It is important to keep in mind that acupuncture is distinctly different from dry needling, with acupuncture being a far more effective treatment option if you are suffering from a pinched nerve. You do not have to manage the pain associated with your pinched nerve or accept the feelings of numbness that are occurring regularly. There are treatment options available to you, and acupuncture for pinched nerves is a great place to start.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Pinched Nerves

When combined with chiropractic care and massage therapy, acupuncture can be incredibly beneficial for individuals suffering from a pinched nerve.

Acupuncture for pinched nerve offers the following benefits:

• This treatment option works to improve blood flow in the body, which can improve overall function and reduce unwanted pressure on the nerves.
• Acupuncture works to stimulate nerve function, which can revitalize damaged nerves.
• When compared to prescription medication, acupuncture is more effective and results in fewer side effects, which often improves patient outcomes and experiences.



While acupuncture for pinched nerves can be incredibly effective on its own, the results will last longer when this treatment is combined with chiropractic care and massage therapy. Chiropractic care can work to improve alignment in the body, while massage therapy can help soothe the soft tissues that may be causing pinched nerves. A blended approach that emphasizes holistic wellness can provide patients with exceptional, long-term results.

What to Expect at an Acupuncture Session

When most people think of acupuncture, they immediately think of needles sticking out of their body — which may sound intimidating or uncomfortable. In reality, however, acupuncture sessions are not painful, with many patients finding the experience to be quite relaxing.

At Advanced Physical Medicine of St. Charles, you can expect a peaceful and relaxing environment for your acupuncture session. During your treatment, a licensed acupuncture therapist will strategically insert ultra-fine needles into meridians on the body where you are experiencing pain and discomfort. When the needle is inserted, you may feel a small prick — most patients compare it to the feeling of being bitten by a mosquito.

The number of needles required, as well as the duration of the session, will vary depending on your needs. For the most part, you can expect the therapist to use between 5 and 8 needles, with the treatment lasting between 30 and 45 minutes.

While acupuncture is known for immediately alleviating pain, it's important to note that you may have to return for several visits to maximize your results. Most patients find that they require between 6 and 8 acupuncture sessions when they are suffering from a pinched nerve.



In addition to allowing you to feel more comfortable, acupuncture also may help you feel more relaxed and energized. It's a vital component of any holistic healthcare routine.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

If you feel that you may benefit from acupuncture for a pinched nerve, then now is the right time to contact Advanced Physical Medicine of St. Charles. Our chiropractors and acupuncture therapy specialists are trained to provide all patients with personalized care, ensuring that you receive the comprehensive treatment that you need in order to live a pain-free life.

Schedule your acupuncture appointment today!