What Causes Nerve Compression Syndrome?

Nerve Compression Syndrome, also known as a pinched nerve, occurs when surrounding tissues—such as muscles, tendons, bones, or scar tissue—apply too much pressure on a nerve. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s function and can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. At Core Surgical in NYC, our board-certified surgeons bring nearly 40 years of combined clinical experience to the diagnosis and surgical correction of nerve compression disorders, especially those caused by trauma, injury, or prior surgical complications.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic discomfort or symptoms following a past surgery, our expert team is here to help.

What Causes Nerve Compression Syndrome?

Nerve compression can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Repetitive Motion or Overuse: Activities that involve frequent, repetitive motion—such as typing, lifting, or certain athletic movements—can irritate soft tissues and lead to inflammation that compresses nearby nerves.
• Trauma or Injury: Sudden injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, can cause swelling or misalignment that presses on a nerve.
• Herniated Discs or Spinal Conditions: In the spine, bulging or herniated discs can press on spinal nerves, leading to pain that radiates down the arms or legs (e.g., sciatica or cervical radiculopathy).
• Anatomical Abnormalities: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or thoracic outlet syndrome are examples of anatomical compressions that trap nerves within tight spaces.
• Scar Tissue from Surgery: Nerve compression syndrome may also occur as a complication from prior surgery. In some cases, scar tissue (also called adhesions) develops postoperatively and entraps a nearby nerve, leading to lingering or worsening symptoms months or even years after the procedure.

Symptoms of Nerve Compression Syndrome

Symptoms vary depending on the nerve and location affected but commonly include:

• Sharp, burning, or radiating pain
• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations
• Numbness in the extremities
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of coordination or grip strength
• Increased pain with movement or certain positions

Persistent symptoms that do not improve with rest or non-surgical treatments may indicate the need for further intervention—especially if related to a prior surgical procedure.

How Core Surgical Can Help

At Core Surgical, our NYC-based team specializes in correcting complex surgical issues, including nerve compression resulting from previous surgeries. Whether you’re experiencing complications from a hernia repair, appendectomy, splenectomy, or any other surgical procedure, we have the experience and training to identify and resolve the issue.

Our treatment approach includes:

Thorough Diagnostic Evaluation

We use advanced imaging and physical testing to determine the exact source and extent of nerve compression.

Surgical Revision When Needed

If scar tissue, misplacement of surgical mesh, or other structural issues are compressing a nerve, we may recommend a surgical release or revision surgery to free the nerve and restore function.

Multidisciplinary Expertise

With nearly four decades of combined experience, our board-certified surgeons bring specialized knowledge in a variety of surgical fields—from general surgery to advanced laparoscopic procedures—ensuring safe and effective outcomes.

Don’t Let Nerve Pain Control Your Life

Nerve compression can significantly affect your quality of life—making daily activities painful or even impossible. If you’ve had surgery and are experiencing unexplained nerve pain, tingling, or weakness, you may be dealing with a surgically induced nerve compression that requires expert attention.

At Core Surgical, we provide compassionate, highly skilled care to help you get answers—and relief.

Schedule a Consultation with NYC’s Surgical Experts

Whether you’re seeking a second opinion or need surgical correction for nerve compression, Core Surgical in New York City is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified specialists. Let us help you move forward—pain-free and confident.