Pinched nerves can occur anywhere in the body, but are a relatively common occurrence in the low back. A nerve in the lumbar spine can become pinched by any number of structures, but most often it happens when a spinal disc herniates out beyond its normal confines and puts pressure on the delicate spinal nerve roots. Symptoms of a pinched nerve include sharp burning pain that may radiate down the leg and into the foot, muscle weakness, numbness and tingling. There are several treatment options available.
Ice
When a nerve is pinched by a disc or any other structure, there is usually a lot of accompanying inflammation. Ice is a beneficial first treatment choice because it helps reduce both pain and inflammation. Ice can cause freezing burns if applied directly on the skin for too long. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply directly to the painful area for 20 minutes every few hours.
Rest
According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, approximately 80 to 90 percent of all cases of a pinched nerve will resolve if given enough time and rest. A day or two of rest is appropriate when a pinched nerve in the lower back flares up. Any more than that can actually exacerbate the problem by causing muscle atrophy. Avoid any activities that aggravate the symptoms or may stress the back.
Medication
According to the Mayo Clinic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, such as naproxen, aspirin and ibuprofen, can be helpful by reducing pain and inflammation around the pinched nerve. These drugs are available over the counter, but if pain is severe, a doctor can prescribe a more potent form. In very severe cases, a short course of narcotic pain reliever may help break the pain cycle. A doctor may also prescribe a muscle relaxer to help reduce muscle spasms that accompany the pinched nerve. If these medications are not effective, corticosteroids can be injected directly into the sight of the pinched nerve in an effort to stop the pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy
Many cases of a pinched nerve in the lower back are caused by muscle imbalance, weakness or other dysfunction. A physical therapist can work in conjunction with the doctor to prescribe stretches and exercises that can help restore proper muscle function, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is critical to achieving a long term solution. Muscles control all movement in the spine and if not functioning the way they ought too, can cause a host of problems, including a pinched nerve.
Surgery
According to Spine Universe, very few patients end up needing surgery to fix a pinched nerve. If symptoms persist and do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerve.
