Pinched Nerve or Something Worse? 5 Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

That tingling in your fingers, shooting pain down your leg, or nagging ache in your neck may seem like a minor inconvenience at first. Maybe you slept in an awkward position or sat at your desk too long. 

But when pain lingers or new symptoms develop, you may worry that something more serious is going on. 

Spine expert Max Steuer, MD, helps patients in Atlanta, Georgia, understand what’s causing their neck and back pain and determines the next steps. While a pinched nerve often improves over time, certain symptoms need prompt medical treatment. 

Take a moment to review these five warning signs you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Pain that travels down your arm or leg

A pinched nerve doesn't always hurt where the problem starts. When a nerve in your neck or lower back is compressed, the pain can travel into your shoulders, arms, hands, legs, or buttocks.

You might notice a sharp, shooting pain or a burning sensation that worsens when you turn your head, bend, or cough. These symptoms can occur with conditions such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.

If the pain persists, worsens, or interferes with daily activities, Dr. Steuer can assess the problem.

2. Numbness or tingling that won’t go away

An occasional tingling sensation probably isn't cause for alarm, but persistent numbness or a pins-and-needles feeling can signal ongoing pressure on a nerve.

Pay attention if the sensation keeps returning, spreads to other areas, or makes it harder to feel objects in your hand or the ground beneath your feet. Don't ignore new or worsening numbness, especially when it comes with pain or weakness.

3. New or worsening muscle weakness

Do you drop things, struggle to grip a coffee mug, or notice that one foot feels harder to lift? These changes may indicate a compressed nerve is affecting muscle function.

New or progressive weakness necessitates prompt medical evaluation. Sudden or severe weakness requires emergency care, particularly if it affects your ability to walk or move normally.

4. Pain that keeps getting worse

Many mild pinched nerves improve over time with rest and care. But if pain persists for days, grows more intense, or keeps returning, have it evaluated.

If neck or back pain disrupts your sleep, limits your activities, or fails to improve with at-home care, Dr. Steuer can conduct a thorough medical evaluation to identify the cause. 

You may need physical therapy, medication, injections, or another treatment based on your diagnosis.

5. Changes in bladder or bowel control

This is a warning sign you should never brush aside. Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty urinating, or numbness around your groin or inner thighs may indicate that the nerves in your lower spine are seriously compressed. 

Seek emergency medical care immediately if these symptoms develop. Prompt treatment can be critical to preventing lasting nerve damage.

Find out what’s causing your symptoms

Thankfully, you don’t have to guess whether your pain is a pinched nerve or something more serious. Dr. Steuer and his team can evaluate your symptoms, identify potential causes, and discuss treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen to get answers, call 404-303-8280 or request an appointment online today.