Whether it’s temporary or a recurring issue, a pinched nerve can be very painful and bring on strange symptoms. Because of that, it may be difficult for you to realize that a pinched nerve is an issue, which can bring on chronic pain if not correctly dealt with. Multiple factors—from overuse, pregnancy, or other weight gains to diabetes and arthritis—can cause a pinched nerve.
Brooklyn Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at five classic signs of a pinched nerve that need medical attention.

1. Pins and Needles
You’re probably familiar with this feeling if your leg or arm falls asleep. If it’s temporary, it’s normal, but any prolonged feeling means a sensory nerve is being compressed.

2. Numbness or Decreased Sensation
If you’re having this issue in a part of your body, it could mean that pressure isn’t allowing blood to flow to the nerve.

3. Hands or Feet Fall Asleep Often
In addition to it happening out of the blue as in No. 1, you’ll also want to note if your hands or feet are falling asleep (getting the pins-and-needles feeling) more often than usual. You’ll want to have a doctor check the area.

4. Sharp Pain That Radiates Outward
This won’t necessarily come from where the pinched nerve is, but it’s more likely to be a part near the nerve that becomes inflamed. For example, sciatica is a back issue, but the nerve runs down your leg, and you’ll feel it at the nerve ending.

5. Muscle Weakness in One Area of the Body
This is a sign that a motor nerve is pinched, but it could also mimic symptoms of heart attack or stroke, so if you can’t pinpoint the cause of this, you’ll definitely want to see your doctor for an evaluation.

To learn more about Brooklyn Park Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://brooklyn-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.