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October 13, 2004

Pinched Nerve

A client of mine has recently presented with a pinched nerve in their shoulder. I've done some reading and decided to share my experiences working with this condition.

This client has a history of bulging discs in both the neck and low back. After reading what causes a pinched nerve, this clients' history has me concerned. Massage serves to relieve the symptoms of a pinched nerved temporarily. But when the pain comes back, it is accompanied by a deep ache along the nerve. Tingling and sensations such as the limb "going to sleep."

Working with this client, their muscles just medial to the shoulder blade and at the top of the shoulder into the neck were so sensitive and deep tissue therapy was too painful to administer at the pressure needed to be effective. I resorted to using ice to make the muscles relax. I'm optimistic that they will be more comfortable, but do not know how long the benefits will last.

A referral to their doctor may be in order if they do not get lasting relief.

Posted by linda at October 13, 2004 10:53 AM