Pinched nerves can happen almost anywhere in the body, but are more common in the neck, low back, wrist and elbow. When a nerve becomes compressed, stretched or constricted by the surrounding bones or soft tissues, it leads to pain, numbness and tingling, muscle weakness and loss of sensation. One of the most common causes of a pinched nerve is a herniated disc in the spine. According to the Mayo Clinic, most people recover from the effects of a pinched nerve within a few days or weeks with only conservative treatment, but sometimes, surgery may be required to relieve pressure. There are many good conservative remedies that can help.
Rest
When symptoms of a pinched nerve begin to occur, it is advisable to refrain from any movement or activity that aggravates the symptoms, according to The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. When the pinched nerve occurs in the spine, bed rest may be recommended for a short time. Resting beyond a day or two can actually exacerbate the problem, as it leads to muscle atrophy.
Ice
Pinched nerves can involve inflammation that can cause pain and other symptoms. Ice is a great first treatment choice. Ice helps by constricting blood vessels that reduce the inflammation. It also can help modulate pain directly. Never apply ice directly on the skin to avoid freezing burns. Instead, wrap the ice pack in a towel and apply over the affected area for 20 minutes every two hours or so.
Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen, are available over the counter and can be effective in treating symptoms of a pinched nerve. NSAIDs are particularly helpful because they treat both inflammation and pain.
Often, a pinched nerve can be exacerbated and cause muscle spasms for which prescription muscle relaxers may be helpful. If NSAIDs are ineffective at treating pain, a doctor can prescribe a short course of narcotics. According to The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, corticosteroids can be injected directly into the area of the pinched nerve and will help treat the inflammation and pain associated with the nerve compression.
Physical Therapy
In conjunction with a doctor, a physical therapist can recommend stretches and exercises that can be effective at reducing the compression. Many times a pinched nerve is causes by muscle imbalance. Due to poor posture or injury, some muscles may become tight and overstressed, while the opposite corresponding muscles become weak.
Through assisted stretching and other soft tissue manipulation, tight muscles can be released and exercises can strengthen those that are weak. Balancing the system can reduce the stress and pressure causing the pinched nerve, according to the Mayo Clinic.
