A pinched nerve A pinched nerve is also known as nerve compression or nerve impingement. This occurs when a nerve is compressed or irritated by surrounding tissues such as muscles, tendons, bones, or cartilage. This compression can cause: • Pain • Numbness • Tingling • Weakness to the affected area. Pinched nerves commonly occur in the: • Neck (cervical) • Lower back (lumbar) • Wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome) Treatment options for pinched nerves include: • Pain management medications • Rest • Phy