Identifying and Treating a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

5. Diagnosis

When you see a doctor about a pinched nerve, they will ask about the pain and try to rule out any more serious injuries or illnesses. They may conduct a physical examination, checking for muscle weakness, changing reflexes, and range of motion.

If a physical exam does not provide enough information, the doctor may recommend further tests. X-rays and MRI scans can help the doctor see abnormalities in the spine. An electromyography or EMG test uses electrical pulses to test if nerves are working correctly.