Is It a Pinched Nerve or Something More? When to See a Specialist in Clifton

Tingling in your fingers. Burning in your lower back. A shooting pain down your arm or leg. Many patients who walk into our Clifton office at Garden State Pain & Orthopedics describe these symptoms and ask the same question: "Do I have a pinched nerve?"

Pinched nerves are a common cause of pain and discomfort in adults aged 30 to 50, especially those who work long hours at desks, lift heavy objects, or have suffered injuries in the past. But not all nerve-related pain is the result of a "pinched" nerve, and knowing when to see a specialist can make all the difference in recovery.

In this blog, we'll explain what a pinched nerve actually is, how to identify it, and what treatment options are available right here in Clifton.

What Is a Pinched Nerve? A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues—such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or discs. This pressure disrupts the nerve's function and causes pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Common locations:

• Cervical spine (neck)

• Lumbar spine (lower back)

• Shoulder and elbow

• Wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome)

Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve

Depending on where the nerve is compressed, symptoms may include:

• Sharp, aching, or burning pain

• Radiating pain down the arms or legs (sciatica)

• Numbness or reduced sensation in the area

• Tingling or "pins and needles"

• Muscle weakness

• Pain that worsens with certain positions or movements

For example, a pinched nerve in the lower back can cause pain that radiates down your leg, while one in the neck might lead to pain that travels to your shoulder or arm.

Is It a Pinched Nerve or Something More?

Not all nerve pain is caused by compression. In some cases, your symptoms might be due to:

• Herniated or bulging discs

• Degenerative disc disease

• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)

• Neuropathy (nerve damage due to diabetes, alcohol use, or other causes)

• Autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis

This is why a professional evaluation is essential. What feels like a pinched nerve could be part of a more complex condition that requires advanced care.

When to See a Specialist in Clifton You should make an appointment with one of our pain specialists if:

• Your pain lasts more than 7 days

• Symptoms worsen instead of improving

• You have muscle weakness or frequent numbness

• Over-the-counter medications and home care don't help

• Pain interferes with sleep, work, or daily activities

Early treatment can prevent long-term nerve damage and help you avoid surgery down the line.

How We Diagnose Nerve Pain at Garden State Pain in Clifton

Our experienced team uses a combination of diagnostic tools:

• Physical exam to assess strength, reflexes, and range of motion

• Imaging: MRI or CT scan to locate structural problems

• Nerve conduction studies to evaluate how well your nerves are functioning

• Diagnostic injections to pinpoint the pain source

Once we understand the cause, we create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Effective Treatment Options for Pinched Nerves

✅ Conservative Treatments

• Physical therapy to improve flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and reduce pressure on the nerve

• Activity modification and posture training

• Hot/cold therapy and anti-inflammatory medications