What Are the Treatments for Pinched Nerves?

Pinched nerve is the term used for any abnormal pressure that degrades the function of a nerve root or branch. It can result from a number of conditions, including herniated discs and intruding muscle, tendon, bone or cartilage. Temporary conditions leading to a pinched nerve are typically harmless if resolved, but long-term intrusion can cause permanent damage. Treatments for a pinched nerve range from self-care options to corrective surgery.

Symptoms and Self-Care

• Symptoms of a pinched nerve include pain, numbness, burning, tingling, muscle spasm and weakness in an arm or leg. In some cases, pain may appear some distance from the spot of actual injury. If you experience minor versions of these symptoms, you may first try to resolve them through self-treatment. In some cases, muscle spasm or strain may place stress on a nerve. To relieve this condition, try taking a hot shower or massaging the affected area. You may also use alternating applications of heat and ice. If you use this method, protect your skin from direct exposure and switch between application sources every 20 minutes.

  While it might seem counterintuitive, you may also gain relief from certain physical activities. Try range of motion stretches for lower back problems, or simple neck rolls for a pinched nerve in this area. Even taking a walk can help provide relief. Additionally, you may want to relieve pain through the use of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication such as naproxen, ibuprofen or aspirin. These medications all carry side effect risks, so make sure you read all product warnings and follow dosing instructions. If your pain is unresolved after a couple of days, or is severe from the outset, contact your doctor for a thorough diagnosis. While a pinched nerve may indeed be the problem, other conditions may be causing your symptoms.

Medical Treatment

• If a pinched nerve is the proper diagnosis, your doctor will likely begin treatment by asking you to stop any activities that might worsen your symptoms. If necessary, he may seek to fully immobilize the affected area through use of a splint or soft cervical collar. If over-the-counter NSAIDs are ineffective, he may also use prescription NSAIDs such as diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam). Alternately, he may treat you with a direct injection of a corticosteroid such as methyprednisolone. Just like over-the-counter medications, these products carry significant risk. Consult your doctor for a full explanation of any medication he might prescribe.

Physical Therapy

• Your doctor may also recommend you visit a physical therapist for exercises designed to stretch and strengthen muscles in the area of your pinched nerve. A physical therapist may also be able to suggest appropriate modification of any habitual movements or behaviors that cause or worsen your condition. Even simple changes in posture may eventually resolve your symptoms.

Surgery

• In some cases, surgery to relieve pressure on a pinched nerve is indicated. Conditions that frequently require surgery include disc herniation, bone spurs and obstruction of the carpal tunnel in the wrist. If you need surgery, your doctor will explain the options available to you.