How to Sleep With Pinched Nerves

Pinched nerves can occur at any part of the body for varying reasons. This happens when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues; creating inflammation of the particular nerve and disrupting the functioning of the nerve involved. Muscles, bones, tendons and cartilage can be the precipitating cause. Pain, numbness, weakness and tingling result from the pressure. Sports injury, obesity, injury or stresses from performing a repetitive movement are common causes.

Instructions

• 1

  Place a brace or splint on the area for support and immobilization during the day and at night for problems involving hands, wrist, elbows, knees and ankles.

• 2

  Obtain a neck pillow for sleep if the nerve involves the neck or shoulders. Place the larger portion under the neck for sleeping on either side. Place the smaller portion under the neck for back sleeping.

• 3

  Rest the affected area as much as possible. Avoid activities which cause or aggravate the compressed area.

• 4

  Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen to alleviate pain and reduce swelling around the nerve. Check with individual physician for severe pinched nerve pain in case a prescription is necessary.

• 5

  Contact a physician if the pinched nerve does not improve after several weeks. Continued pain and numbness can indicate complications.