Many patients consult a chiropractor because they think they have a pinched nerve. Due to the way the spine is designed, an abnormal spinal function results from a physical trauma, emotional stress or chemical toxins affecting the delicate tissues of the spinal cord and nerve roots. Although the pinched nerve (compressive lesion) is often associated with the spine, it is actually rare. Research suggests that only 10% to 15% of the spine-related problems are caused by direct pressure from the bone to the nerve tissue. This can lead to numbness, a burning sensation or a stinging sensation. It is much more common for nerves to be irritated (facilitating lesion). This is caused by friction or scraping over the nerve tissue, stretching due to curvature of the spine or irritation of malfunctioning vertebrae.