What is nerve root compression?
Your spine is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae. In between our vertebrae, nerves leave that carry information to different parts of your body (arms, legs etc). When there is pressure on these nerves, they are not able to function as they normally would. This is called nerve root compression.
Above: Nerve root compression can occur from a compromised space in the nerve endings causing increased pain and discomfort.What causes nerve root compression?
Nerve root compression can be caused by:
- Pressure from a disc (which sits between your vertebrae)
- Bony growths – resulting from osteoarthritis or ageing
- Back muscle spasms
- Back fracture
- Abnormal growths – cancer
What are the symptoms of nerve root compression?
As compression of the nerve root causes an impairment of the nerves normal function, the symptoms that you get will depend on the nerve that is compressed. Typically people that have nerve root compression will experience one or more of these symptoms:
- Pain in your back – increased by movements that cause further pressure on the nerve root; for instance coughing, sneezing, straightening your back
In the area that the nerve carries information to (which could be anywhere in your body):
- Numbness, tinging or pins and needles
- Weakness of muscles
If you experience changes in your bladder and bowel, numbness between your legs or symptoms that occur in both your legs, it is possible that a nerve root in the lower section of your spine has been compressed and it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Above: Regular stretching can reduce the symptoms associated with nerve root pain.How is nerve root compression Diagnosed?
A comprehensive assessment from a doctor or physiotherapist can diagnose nerve root compression. At Liverpool Physio, our physiotherapists have a specialist set of skills to carry out this assessment. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may need scans to identify the extent of the nerve compression and what is causing it.
For further information about how Physiotherapy can help treat nerve root compression, or to book yourself an appointment, please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or ring us on 0151 558 0077.
What would a physiotherapy assessment for nerve root compression involve?
At Liverpool Physio your first appointment would be an assessment split this into two parts:
Subjective
A conversation about what symptoms you are experiencing, when they began, what makes your symptoms ease or get worse and discussing information so that our physiotherapist can gain an understanding of how this condition is affecting you and your lifestyle.
Objective
An assessment of your current pain, range of movement in your back, and if necessary (neck/arms/legs depending on the spread of your symptoms), muscle strength, reflexes, spine flexibility and a series of special tests to rule out other conditions.
What would physiotherapy treatment for nerve root compression involve?
At Liverpool Physio, our physiotherapists may use some of the below treatments to resolve your symptoms (depending on the cause of the nerve root compression):
- Spine mobilisations
- Exercises
- Stretches
- Techniques to correct the sensation in areas that may be numb
- Advice on activity modification
- Advice on pain relief
- Postural advice
How can I arrange a physiotherapy assessment for nerve root compression?
If you are experiencing abnormal symptoms such as pain, pins and needles or numbness anywhere in your body, you will benefit from an assessment by one of our physiotherapists at Liverpool Physio.
You can contact us directly to arrange an assessment and we can advise you if further treatment is recommended, or give you details on self-management for minor cases. To arrange an appointment please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call 0151 558 0077.
Summary
Nerve root compression can be an irritating and uncomfortable condition and some cases can be severe and require immediate treatment for the best results. Our physiotherapists at Liverpool Physio will be able to use their comprehensive set of skills to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.
For further information about how Physiotherapy can help treat nerve root compression, or to book yourself an appointment, please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or ring us on0151 558 0077.
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