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Symptoms of Thoracic Pinched Nerve

Symptoms of a pinched thoracic nerve can cause pain and abnormal sensations in the back and neck, and may worsen if left untreated. Fortunately, these symptoms are preventable and easily treated with medical care.

  1. Features

    • Symptoms of a pinched thoracic nerve include feeling a pins-and-needles sensation, numbness or tingling, sharp pains and twitches or spasms of muscles in the upper back and neck.

    Identification

    • Doctors identify a pinched thoracic nerve by performing a physical assessment and ordering tests such as nerve conduction studies, electromyelography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray.

    Causes

    • Pinched thoracic nerves result from conditions including osteoarthritis, obesity, poor posture, repetitive tasks and occupational and physical injuries.

    Effects

    • A pinched thoracic nerve may cause difficulty with normal daily activities such as driving or working at a job, as well as discomfort when trying to sleep or rest.

    Treatments

    • Symptoms of a pinched thoracic nerve are treated with rest, physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers, steroid injections and surgery for severe cases.

    Prevention/Solution

    • To prevent the symptoms of a pinched thoracic nerve: maintain a healthy weight; have good posture; take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks; use relaxation techniques; avoid carrying heavy shoulder bags; and perform stretching exercises.

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