Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve)

Pain that travels down your arm or leg can be confusing. You might feel burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness and wonder whether it’s coming from your hand, your hip, or somewhere else entirely. If you’ve been told you have a pinched nerve, or you think it might be sciatica, you’re in the right place. At Serene Chiropractic in Worcester, MA, we help you understand where your symptoms are coming from and what can help.

What’s going on?

Radiculopathy happens when a nerve root is irritated or compressed right where it leaves the spine. Because that nerve travels down the arm or leg, you can feel symptoms far from where the problem starts. In the neck it’s called cervical radiculopathy, and it affects the shoulder, arm, and hand. In the low back it’s called lumbar radiculopathy, and when it involves the sciatic nerve, most people call it sciatica. So sciatica is really one type of radiculopathy, not a separate condition. Radiculopathy is also different from peripheral neuropathy, which affects nerves farther out in the hands and feet and is often linked to conditions like diabetes.

Common contributors

Disc changes

A bulging or herniated disc can press on a nearby nerve root.

Narrowing around the nerve

Age-related changes like bone spurs or thickened ligaments can narrow the space where nerves exit the spine.

Posture & strain

Prolonged sitting, looking down, or repetitive lifting can add pressure in the neck and low back.

How can we help?

We start by mapping your symptoms, testing reflexes, strength, and sensation, and looking at how your spine moves to help pinpoint which nerve root may be involved. Care may include gentle adjustments, spinal decompression, soft tissue work, and specific exercises to take pressure off the nerve. Many people with radiculopathy improve with conservative care. If your exam shows signs that need imaging or a specialist, we’ll tell you right away.

When to see a doctor first

Call 911 or get care right away if you have:

-Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the groin area
-Weakness in an arm or leg that is getting worse quickly
-Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body or face
-Nerve symptoms after a fall or accident

If your numbness or weakness is constant or spreading, we may recommend imaging or a visit with a specialist.

Get to the root of your nerve pain

Chiropractic care may be a helpful part of your plan. Learn more about how we work with adults.

Explore adult chiropractic

Still have questions?

Learn what to expect at your first visit,
which insurance plans we work with,
or meet our providers.