Understanding Your Pain
What Happens When a Nerve Is Compressed
Think of It This Way: Nerves Are Like Electrical Wires
Your nerves are like electrical wires running throughout your body.
They carry commands from the brain to the body, and sensations from the body back to the brain.
When a Nerve Is Compressed...
When a nerve is compressed, it is like an electrical wire being squeezed.
When signals are disrupted, the following symptoms can occur:
| Symptom | What Is Happening |
|---|---|
| Pain | The nerve is sending a "there's a problem!" signal |
| Numbness | Sensory signals are not being transmitted properly |
| Reduced sensation | You cannot feel touch as well as normal |
| Muscle weakness | The "move" command is not reaching your muscles properly |