Squashed or trapped nerve

Sometimes, the general “wear and tear” that occurs in the joints and bones of the spine as a person gets older can cause the nerves to have less room as they exit from the spine (some people say “squashed” or “trapped”). This can cause pain that radiates from the neck to the arms, and sometimes also pins and needles.

Arm pain caused like this varies from person to person, but it’s typical to have good days and bad days. In most cases, symptoms can be controlled using over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, and exercise.

A trapped nerve can also occur in the arm itself. This can sometimes occur in the wrist or elbow.