Cockatiel With Pinched Nerve

A pinched nerve is often the result of an injury.

A pinched nerve in a cockatiel can be difficult for a bird owner to diagnose. Because a more serious injury can be mistakenly diagnosed as a pinched nerve, it is important to seek veterinarian advice if the symptoms are causing the cockatiel discomfort.

Symptoms

A pinched nerve is caused by pressure against the nerves that is the result of swelling or injury. This painful condition can cause numbness or loss of use of the area affected by the swelling.

Affected Areas

In caged birds, most injuries involve the wings, legs or feet. Because these three areas of the body are important to a cockatiel's ability to maintain balance and movement, the cockatiel may stumble or lie down on the bottom of the cage.

Treatment

All perches should be lowered to the bottom of the cage to prevent the cockatiel from falling from a high perch. Veterinary treatment should be sought if the condition seems to be causing the cockatiel pain, interferes with normal movement or reduces appetite.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Pinched Nerve
• Doctor's Foster and Smith: Bird Emergencies