Treatment for a Pinched Sacral Nerve

The sacrum is a triangular shaped bone with five segments located near the bottom of the spine. Sometimes, a disk between sacral vertebrae can herniate and pinch one or more of the five sacral nerve roots, according to Spine-Health.com. Treatments for sacral nerve pain are usually focused on alleviating the underlying cause of the pinched nerve.

Significance

• Pinched nerves can cause a considerable amount of pain as well as weakness and numbness in the legs and feet, especially if the sciatic nerve is affected. People with sacral nerve pain need to rest and stop all physical activity for awhile.

Types of Treatment

• Ice should be used during the first 48 hours to reduce the initial pain and inflammation of the disc. After that, a heating pad can help relax nerves and muscles and increase blood flow for healing.

Other Types of Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory treatments such as ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin can also help reduce inflammation and pain in the sacral region. A doctor may prescribe drugs such as amitriptyline for more severe pain.

Effects of Exercise

• Certain stretching and strength-building exercises can help increase flexibility and stability in the sacrum area. This can help relieve pressure of sacral nerves.

Prevention/Solution

• Herniated discs or injuries that cause sacral pinched nerves can be prevented through exercise, maintaining correct posture and lifting objects properly, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.