What is a pinched nerve? Have you ever experienced that sharp, shooting pain or tingling sensation in your back or neck? Chances are, you may have had a run-in with a pinched nerve. A pinched nerve , also known as a compressed or trapped nerve, occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons. This pressure can disrupt the nerve's function, leading to discomfort that can really put a damper on your d