Trapped Nerve Treatment in Cardiff
A trapped nerve can be painful and worrying. You might feel sharp, burning or shooting pain, pins and needles, or numbness travelling into your arm or leg. It can make it hard to sit, sleep or work.
At ADT Chiropractic, our Cardiff chiropractors carry out a thorough examination to find where the nerve is being irritated and why. We then build a clear plan to ease your symptoms, improve movement and help your body recover.
Book a new patient consultation or call 02920 501880.
"Where you feel the pain isn't always where the problem is."
What is a trapped nerve?
A "trapped nerve" usually means a nerve is being irritated or squashed as it leaves the spine, or somewhere along its path. The pain and symptoms can then travel along the nerve, so you may feel them far from where the problem starts.
Common types include:
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Trapped nerve in the neck – pain, tingling or numbness into the shoulder, arm or hand
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Trapped nerve in the lower back (sciatica) – pain travelling into the buttock and down the leg
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Disc-related nerve irritation – where a bulging disc presses on a nerve
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Joint and muscle-related irritation – stiff joints or tight muscles narrowing the space around a nerve
Things that commonly contribute:
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Long periods of sitting, driving or looking down at screens
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Lifting, twisting or a sudden awkward movement
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Wear-and-tear changes in the spine
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Previous back or neck problems
If your symptoms are in your leg, see our sciatica page for more detail.
How we can help
We examine your spine, how you move and how your nerves are working (including your reflexes, strength and sensation) to find the source of the problem. Your plan usually combines:
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Gentle spinal adjustments and mobilisation to reduce pressure and improve movement
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Soft tissue therapy to ease muscle tension around the area
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Targeted exercises to calm the nerve down and build strength
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Practical advice on positions, sleep and staying active while you recover
Your first visit
Your new patient consultation lasts up to 60 minutes and costs £60. It includes:
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A full case history: your symptoms, health, work and lifestyle
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A physical, orthopaedic and neurological examination
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A clear explanation of what we think is going on
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Your first treatment where appropriate, and a plan for what comes next
Follow-up appointments are 30 minutes and cost £42.
How many sessions will I need?
Everyone is different. Many people notice a change within the first few sessions, while nerve symptoms that have been around for a while can take longer to settle. We'll review your progress regularly, and if your symptoms aren't improving as expected, we'll tell you and help you get the right onward care.
What you can do in the meantime
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Keep moving gently. Short, regular walks usually help more than bed rest.
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Change position often and avoid sitting for long periods.
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Find positions that ease your symptoms and use them for rest and sleep.
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Avoid movements that make pain travel further down your arm or leg.
When to get urgent help
Go to A&E or call 999 if you have:
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Numbness or tingling around your genitals, bottom or inner thighs
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New problems passing urine, or losing control of your bladder or bowels
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Weakness or numbness in both arms or both legs
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Weakness that is quickly getting worse, such as dropping things or your foot catching when you walk
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with us. We will let you know if we think you need to see your GP as well.
Will I need a scan?
Most people don't need a scan straight away. If your symptoms are severe, getting worse or not improving, we'll tell you and explain how to arrange one.
Is treatment safe with a trapped nerve?
Yes. We examine you carefully first and use gentle techniques suited to your symptoms.
Will the numbness go away?
In many cases nerve symptoms ease as the irritation settles, though it can take time. We'll keep checking your nerve function as you progress.
Book your appointment
We are at Maindy Centre, Crown Way, Cardiff CF14 3AJ, with free parking. We're open Monday to Thursday 07:30–20:30 and Friday 07:30–17:00.
Book online or call 02920 501880.
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