Cervical radiculopathy, commonly called a “pinched nerve,” occurs when a nerve in the cervical spine (neck) is compressed or irritated. Symptoms may include “pins and needles,” burning sensation, numbness and tingling, pain, and muscle weakness radiating from the neck into the head, shoulder blades, spine, arms, hands and fingers. Often movements of the head and neck aggravate pinched nerve symptoms.

While some pinched nerves resolve on their own through rest, ice and over-the-counter pain relievers, others may persist. If you are suffering from ongoing symptoms, it may be time to seek help.

One of the more common causes of pinched nerves in the neck is due to misalignment of the cervical vertebrae. Often, these vertebrae shift slightly out of position through physical trauma, such as through blows to the head, whiplash and/or concussion during motor vehicle accidents, athletics or falls.

Even minor forces – such as sustained poor posture from long hours on the computer or looking down at electronic devices – can lead to cervical misalignment. When bones have been displaced, nerve transmission is compromised, leading to the telltale symptoms of pinched nerves.

Fortunately, a rare chiropractic technique specializing in the cervical spine has shown promise for patients with pinched nerves in the neck.

This specialty – known as Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care – focuses on the alignment of the head and neck vertebrae in order to help patients with chronic pain and neurological symptoms coming from the neck.

In order to determine whether a patient may benefit from care, the cervical chiropractor will perform two diagnostic tests: thermal imaging and digital X-rays of the spine. If a cervical misalignment is diagnosed, the patient’s injured neck is corrected by administering a precise adjustment by hand on a specially-designed knee chest table. Most patients notice improvement in symptoms with just a few treatments.

With over 20 years of experience as a specialist in the upper cervical spine, Upper Cervical Chiropractor Dr. Erin Elster, D.C., has successfully treated hundreds of patients with symptoms of pinched nerves.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Elster in Kahului at (808) 866-6551 or www.erinelster.com.