Q. What kind of physical therapy would you suggest for a pinch nerve in my leg? Is this something I do on my own or should it be done by a professional? Thank you for your help. This flairs up alot and I am eager to hear your answer.

A. The term "pinched nerve" is actually a layman's term indicating either tingling, numbness or pain coming from usually the neck, back, shoulder or pelvis area. Since this is not really a medical term, it can describe many different diagnostic entities.

Nerves can get "caught" in the vertebrae as they exit the spinal cord (spinal stenosis) or in between muscles such as common in the brachial plexus of the shoulder or piriformis in the buttocks.

A physical therapist can work closely with a doctor to determine the underlying area where the nerve is getting "caught" and then find the best solution which can sometimes be as simple as a series of stretching and strengthening exercises.

It is important to see your doctor and get treatment before a simple problem becomes compounded.

Q. Often after I work out my one leg feels very cold for a few hours. Is this normal? How can I prevent this? Is this something to be concerned with?

A. When an extremity feels cold, it can be either a vascular problem or a neurological problem. Either way, it is definitely a reason to check with your physician, as there are many differential diagnoses for this problem.