How to Treat a Pinched Nerve in the Forearm

A pinched nerve in the forearm causes numbness, pain, tingling and weakness. A pinched nerve occurs when excess pressure from neighboring bones, tissue or cartilage compresses it. Fortunately, in most cases, conservative treatments are sufficient. But in some cases, surgery is necessary. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to heal completely.

Instructions

• 1

  Your doctor can examine you to make sure you do not have any additional damage. He can also give you suggestions for healing. Heed any advice or instructions.

• 2

  Rest the forearm as best you can. You might have to refrain from certain professional and recreational activities to allow healing and prevent further damage. Do not lift heavy objects. As you start to feel better, you can ease back into your normal routine. Do not push yourself. Your doctor is a good source of information about timeframes for restricting and resuming activity and what activities are appropriate and inappropriate.

• 3

  Wear a splint to immobilize the arm if necessary. Your doctor can determine if a splint will be beneficial for you.

• 4

  Consider visiting a physical therapist. She can show you ways to stretch and strengthen the muscles in your forearm that will alleviate pressure on the nerve. She can also show you alternate ways of doing certain tasks that will reduce pressure.

• 5

  Take over-the-counter NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like asprin, Advil, Motrin or Aleve to treat pain and inflammation. Do not take more than the recommended amounts on the label. If your pain is more severe, your doctor might consider prescription NSAIDs or corticosteroid injections.

• 6

  Discuss other treatment options with your doctor if your condition has not improved after several weeks of conservative treatments. You might need surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the nerve.