5 Common Signs of a Nerve Injury

Your nerves are like fibers that help your brain communicate with the rest of your body. They can get damaged due to accident injuries, surgeries, or even repetitive motions. 

When your nerves are damaged, you might feel pain, tingling, or numbness or find it hard to move a part of your body. If you have a nerve injury, getting an accurate diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible is crucial. 

Our team at SEPA Pain & Spine in southeastern Pennsylvania offers top-notch care and treatment for nerve-related concerns.

In this blog post, we explore five common signs of a nerve injury and what you can do about it.

Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation

A tingling sensation, often described as "pins and needles," is one of the most commonly reported symptoms of nerve injury. This sensation can be fleeting, lasting only for a few minutes, or it may be more persistent. 

Typically, tingling indicates that a nerve is being compressed or irritated. It's often the first sign that something you shouldn’t ignore might be wrong.

Sharp, shooting pains

Sharp, shooting pains along the nerve path also indicate a nerve injury. These sudden bursts of pain can catch you off guard, making everyday activities uncomfortable or even unbearable. 

Such pains mean the affected nerve is either inflamed or damaged, requiring immediate attention.

Numbness or loss of sensation

Numbness or a loss of sensation in the affected area can be particularly bothersome. This is usually a sign of more severe nerve damage and could mean the nerve's ability to transmit signals is significantly compromised. 

If you experience numbness, especially with other symptoms, consult one of our experts immediately.

Muscle weakness or atrophy

Muscle weakness often occurs with nerve injuries, especially those affecting motor nerves. You may struggle to grip objects, walk, or perform other everyday tasks. In prolonged cases, this can lead to muscle atrophy, when the muscle tissue wastes away due to lack of use. 

Burning sensation

A burning sensation is another common symptom associated with nerve injuries. This is often described as a hot or scalding feeling, usually around the damaged nerve. This type of pain is due to the nerve transmitting erroneous signals, leading your brain to interpret this information as a burning sensation.

Diagnosis and treatment 

Recognizing the signs of a nerve injury is the first step toward recovery. The next step is to consult healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating such conditions. 

At SEPA Pain & Spine, we have a team of experts who can provide a thorough diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan to your needs. From nerve blocks to medication, we offer a range of treatment options designed to relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Identifying the signs of nerve injury early can significantly improve your treatment outcomes. 

Don’t ignore symptoms such as tingling sensations, sharp shooting pains, numbness, muscle weakness, and burning sensations. At SEPA Pain & Spine, we provide the most effective therapies tailored to your specific needs. 

Don't let nerve pain keep you from living your best life. Schedule a consultation with us at one of our offices in Horsham, Langhorne, Meadowbrook, Chalfont, East Norriton, and Limerick, Pennsylvania, or by calling 855-235-7246.