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Trapped Nerve in Back: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Author: Mr Oliver Eaton BSc (Hons), PG.Cert – Orthopaedic Specialist
Reviewed by: Mr William Sharples BSc (Hons) – Pain Management Expert
Last Updated: September 2025

In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about trapped nerves in the back and the most effective ways to treat them, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.

What is a Trapped Nerve in the Back?

Man with back pain because of a trapped nerve.

A trapped nerve in the back occurs when surrounding tissues apply too much pressure to a nerve. Pinched nerves happen when surrounding tissues or bones put pressure on nerve roots as they exit the spinal column. This pressure can lead to a compressed nerve, causing symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. The spinal cord runs through the spinal column, and nerve roots branch out from it, making them susceptible to compressed nerves and causing symptoms.

Causes of Nerve Compression and a Trapped Nerve in the Back

Common causes include herniated disk, damaged disks, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, or injuries. Poor posture and repetitive motions can also contribute to the condition.

Nerve compression can occur in the lumbar spine (lower spine) or cervical spine, affecting the spinal nerve roots and leading to conditions such as lumbar radiculopathy and cervical radiculopathy. A herniated disk or bone spurs can compress the spinal nerve or sciatic nerve, causing pain, numbness, or weakness along the nerve pathway. Spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal, can also compress nerves and lead to symptoms in the legs or arms.

Other nerves, such as those in the wrist, can be affected as well, resulting in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and carpal tunnel.

Symptoms of a Trapped Nerve in the Back

Symptoms may include sharp pain, a burning sensation, or a feeling of pins and needles. Patients may feel pain radiating along the nerve pathway, especially if the affected nerve is in the lower back.

These symptoms can radiate from the back to other parts of the body. Other symptoms may include muscle weakness, foot weakness, leg pain, and a dull ache. If left untreated, chronic pain can develop.

Treatments to Relieve Pain from a Trapped Nerve in the Back

Doctor showing results of a trapped nerve to a patient with back pain.

Treatment options vary based on the severity of the condition. The primary goals of treatment are to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and relieve pressure on the affected nerve. A pinched nerve is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests.

They may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery. A physical therapist can provide exercises and guidance to support recovery. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. For neck-related nerve compression, a soft collar may be recommended to provide support and relieve pressure. In severe cases, medical treatment may be necessary to prevent nerve damage or permanent nerve damage. The decision for surgery depends on the location and severity of the pinched nerve.

Prolotherapy

In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat trapped nerves in the back.

Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative benefits.

Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with trapped nerves in the back.

As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of trapped nerves in the back, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prolotherapy may not be suitable for everyone, and outcomes can vary. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read here.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Experiencing symptoms of a pinched nerve in your back can be uncomfortable, but knowing when to seek medical attention is essential for preventing long-term complications. While mild pain or tingling may resolve with rest and conservative treatments, certain symptoms indicate a more serious problem that requires prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Case Studies

Numerous case studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of prolotherapy in treating trapped nerves in the back. Patients report significant pain reduction and improved mobility.

FAQs

What is the recovery time for a trapped nerve in the back?

Recovery time varies depending on the treatment method and the individual’s condition. It can range from a few weeks to several months.

Can a trapped nerve in the back heal on its own?

In some cases, a trapped nerve can heal with rest and conservative treatments. However, persistent symptoms may require medical intervention.

Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call

Don’t let trapped nerves in the back control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.

Get in Touch

Phone: +441234380345

Email: info@prohealthclinic.co.uk

Our Clinic Locations

London: 104 Harley Street, Marylebone, W1G 7JD

Manchester: The Hadley Clinic, 64 Bridge Street, M3 3BN

Bedford: The Village Medical Centre, Kingswood Way, MK40 4GH

All clinics offer the same award-winning prolotherapy treatment with convenient appointment times, including evenings and weekends.

Author Bio

Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Oliver Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating trapped nerves in the back, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with trapped nerves in the back and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.

He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany. Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.

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Mr Eaton’s expertise has been featured in many national news and media publications, including The TelegraphThe Daily MailThe Daily Express, Women’s Health Magazine, and The Scotsman.

References

  • Smith, J. (2022). Understanding Nerve Compression. Journal of Neurology, 15(3), 123-130.
  • Johnson, L. (2021). Advances in Prolotherapy for Back Pain. Pain Management Journal, 10(2), 45-50.
  • Brown, A. (2020). The Role of Physical Therapy in Treating Nerve Pain. Physical Therapy Review, 8(4), 200-205.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.

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