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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.
A pinched nerve may cause
weakness, pain, tingling, or numbess.
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
Resting the area and getting
adequate sleep may help to treat symptoms.
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.
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
Taking steps to improve
posture while sitting or standing may help to relieve pain.
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.
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