05/29/2026
The term “pinched nerve” sounds simple, but the reality is more complex. Sometimes a nerve root truly is compressed by a disc or bone spur. Other times, the nerve is inflamed by chemicals leaking from a degenerating disc even without major compression. Both situations can produce identical symptoms.
The term “pinched nerve” sounds simple, but the reality is more complex. Learn what causes a pinched nerve, or if it's inflammation.