A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, causing pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. Most cases of pinched nerves go away on their own with rest and other conservative treatments within a few days or weeks. Here are some things you can do to help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by a pinched nerve:
-
Rest: Resting the affected area and avoiding any activities that cause or aggravate the compression is the most frequently recommended treatment for a pinched nerve.
-
Ice and Heat: Along with rest, ice and heat can ease pain from a pinched nerve. Ice can help reduce inflammation, while heat can help relax tense muscles near the pinched nerve and stimulate blood flow, which can aid in healing. Try using a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel or cloth for 15 minutes, then wait for 30 minutes before icing again. Once the inflammation calms down, use a heating pad or warm compress for 10-15 minutes at a time.
-
Posture: Poor posture is a common cause of neck and back pain, which can lead to a pinched nerve. Improper posture can put your body out of alignment and cause unnecessary pressure on your nerves. Adjust your posture and avoid sitting or lying in any one position for a long time.
-
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises that strengthen and stretch the muscles in the affected area to relieve pressure on the nerve. They may also recommend modifications to activities that aggravate the nerve.
-
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Anticonvulsants and tricyclic medications are often used to treat nerve-related pain.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should contact your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional treatments, such as corticosteroid injections or surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.
