What you may feel
- Pain, burning or tingling in the affected nerve territory.
- Certain positions, repeated movements or local pressure may worsen symptoms.
- Partial numbness or altered touch sensation may occur.
- Pain may spread beyond the compression towards the hand or foot.
- More marked nerve involvement may weaken the associated muscles.
How it is assessed
Assessment locates the compression and distinguishes it from a nerve root problem or more widespread neuropathy.
Identify the precise areas of pain and numbness and describe the effect of touch. Bring details of other conditions, medicines and previous procedures.
Approaches to care
Care depends on location and severity, from reducing pressure to specialist treatment.
Discuss how pain affects sleep, work and movement. At follow-up, report changes in sensation and strength as well as pain intensity.
When to seek urgent help
Sudden or rapidly increasing weakness, abrupt loss of sensation or new bladder or bowel problems need immediate assessment.
Further reading: Cleveland Clinic
This is educational information and does not replace an individual medical assessment. Similar symptoms alone do not establish a diagnosis.