A pinched nerve occurs when pressure or force is put on an area of a
nerve, causing it to send warning signals to the brain. These signals
include pain, numbness, and weakness.
|
|
In this article, learn about how to reduce the symptoms of a pinched
nerve and how to prevent them in the future.
Symptoms
The warning signals sent by a pinched nerve may cause a few different
symptoms in the body, especially in the area around the nerve.
Signs and symptoms of a pinched nerve include:
tingling
burning
numbness
pain
muscle weakness
stinging pain, such as pins and needles
the area may feel it has "fallen asleep"
Symptoms may also be worse while lying down or just after waking up.
A pinched nerve also puts a person more at risk for other problems.
Symptoms of sciatica, tennis elbow, and carpal tunnel syndrome may
appear in people with a pinched nerve.
Pinched nerves can occur anywhere in the body but happen most often in
the neck, back, elbows, and wrists.
Ten home remedies for a pinched nerve
There are a variety of ways a person can relieve the pain of a pinched
nerve at home.
1. Extra sleep and rest
Sleep is essential for a healing nerve. The body repairs itself during
sleep, so giving it more time to do so may help reduce symptoms quicker.
In many cases, resting the affected area and getting extra sleep is
enough to allow the pinched nerve to heal on its own.
|
|
While treating a pinched nerve, it is also important not to overuse the
nerve. Nerve damage can be made worse by overuse. A person with a
pinched nerve should avoid any movements that irritate the nerve. They
should also try to sleep in a position that relieves the pressure on the
nerve.
2. Change of posture
A pinched nerve may be caused by or made worse by poor posture. Sitting
or standing with an incorrect posture for extended periods puts
unnecessary stress on the body, which may damage the spine and muscles,
leading to a pinched nerve.
Using cushions, adjustable chairs, and neck rests when sitting may help
relieve pressure and allow the nerve to heal.
3. Ergonomic workstation
People dealing with pinched nerves could try making changes in their
workstation.
Using an ergonomic mouse and keyboard may help reduce pressure in the
hands and wrists. Raising a computer monitor to eye level may help
reduce neck pain and symptoms of text neck.
Using a standing workstation can help keep the spine moving and
flexible, which could reduce back pain.
Ergonomic workstations have a range of positional options, suitable for
many types of pinched nerve. Standing desks are available for purchase
online.
The best way to find the right position is for an individual to
experiment with the settings to see which position relieves pressure.
4. Pain relieving medications
Over-the-counter pain medications may also help with a pinched nerve.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce swelling
and relieve pain in cases of minor pinched nerves.
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, are available for purchase over-the-counter
or online.
As with any drug, it is important to consult a doctor for dosage
recommendations and any potential interactions before using NSAIDs.
5. Stretching and yoga
Gentle stretching and yoga may help relieve tension and pressure in the
area. It is important not to stretch too deeply, as this may make
symptoms worse.
If a person experiences any pain or discomfort while exercising, they
should stop immediately to avoid damaging the nerve any further.
6. Massage or physical therapy
Having a massage may also help reduce physical pain and stress. Applying
gentle pressure around the affected area may help relieve tension, and a
full body massage can help the muscles relax.
|
|
Deep tissue massages may not be a good idea because the extra pressure
may make the symptoms worse.
Physical therapy, using a combination of exercise, massage, and gentle
stretches, can help relieve symptoms.
7. Splint
If it is possible, wearing a splint on the affected area can help
prevent further damage and help the nerve heal. This is a standard
treatment for pinched nerves in the hands and wrists.
Many people also sleep with the splint on to prevent any irritation in
the night and help them sleep. The splint will help take pressure off
the nerve.
8. Elevate the legs
People with pinched nerves in the back may find relief by elevating
their legs to remove any pressure from the spine.
A person can achieve this by putting a few pillows under their knees, so
their legs are at a 45° degree angle to the body.
9. Ice and heat packs
Alternating between heat and ice packs can help reduce swelling and
inflammation in many cases. The combination of hot and cold increases
the circulation of fresh blood to the area, which may help relieve pain.
Hold an ice pack over the affected area for about 15 minutes at a time,
three times a day to help reduce inflammation. Heat pads can be applied
for a longer period, up to 1 hour, three times a day.
Ice packs and heat packs for injuries are available for purchase online.
10. Lifestyle changes
In the long-term, adding a low-impact exercise, such as walking,
swimming, or bicycling, to a daily regimen may help reduce symptoms and
keep the body in shape. Losing extra weight can help reduce pressure on
the nerves, and the added mobility from a regular workout may reduce
inflammation.
Stretching before or after low-impact exercises can help keep the body
flexible and reduce pressure and inflammation near the nerves.
Causes of pinched nerves
A pinched nerve typically happens when a nerve is damaged and cannot
send regular signals to the brain, which may cause feelings of numbness
and tingling.
A pinched nerve can happen for a range of reasons. A herniated disc or
bone spurs that are compressing the nerve may cause it. It may also be
caused by arthritis in the area.
Also, certain activities and habits can cause a pinched nerve. Sitting,
standing, or walking with poor posture may contribute to a pinched
nerve.
Injuries from sports or repetitive actions may compress a nerve. Extra
pressure and weight caused by obesity may also lead to pinched nerves.
When to see a doctor
A pinched nerve is sending warning signs to the brain, so it is
important that people listen to them. Anyone feeling pain from a pinched
nerve that continues after regular treatments or lasts for more than a
few days should report it to a doctor.
There are a few symptoms that require medical attention as soon as
possible, including:
a pinched nerve affecting the bladder
an inability to grip objects or a tendency to drop things
nerve damage that causes a limb or area of the body to give out or
collapse
Doctors may request imaging tests, such as a magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) or a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan, to get a better
picture of the nerves and how they are affected. This will help narrow
down treatment options, which include painkillers or corticosteroids,
physical therapy, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Surgical treatment comes with its risks and complications, so anyone
considering surgery should work directly with their doctor to find a
treatment plan that is right for their personal needs.
Outlook
Most pinched nerves are temporary and easily treated at home. Persistent
symptoms may be a sign of more serious damage that requires medical
care.
Pinched nerves are mostly avoidable, and a good self-care routine can
help reduce inflammation and keep pressure from building up around the
nerves. |