Pinched nerves cause pain, numbness and decreased sensation to affected parts of the body. The condition, also referred to as radiculopathy, is caused by compression, or increased pressure, applied to nerves, reports MayoClinic.com. The website lists a variety of conditions that can cause nerve compression, including poor posture, sports- or work-related injuries, as well as osteoarthritis. Most cases of pinched nerve resolve within several days to several weeks with minimal treatment.
Relaxation and Rest
According to MayoClinic.com, the most common suggested treatment for a pinched nerve is rest. Pain may be temporarily eliminated by alternatively applying hot and cold packs. Heat increases blood circulation and decreases pain, while a cold sensation decreases inflammation and swelling. Hot water bottles and electric blankets are ideal for heat therapy. Cold packs are sold at most drugstores; however, in a pinch, a simple bag of frozen vegetables or bag of ice chips will also work. Heat and cold therapy should last about 20 minutes, and a barrier should always be used between the skin for additional protection. Massage temporarily decreases pain to the pinched nerve; both professional massages and hand-held self-massagers may be effective. Still, pain relief is only temporary. Activities increasing physical pain and discomfort should be eliminated until the pinched nerve heals.
Exercise and Stretching
Spine Universe suggests light exercise when a pinched nerve is present. The website suggests taking short walks. Light stretching and range-of-motion exercises cause the body to release endorphins, decreasing pain and muscle stiffness. A pinched neck nerve may be relieved by rolling the neck from side to side and shrugging the shoulders. Lower back pain may be relieved by lying on the floor, bending the knees and pulling the legs up to the chest.
Medications
Over-the-counter medications may relieve inflammation and swelling around the pinched nerve. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, include ibuprofen and naproxen. These medications should never be administered on an empty stomach to reduce the risk of internal bleeding or stomach ulcers. NSAIDs may be alternated with acetaminophen for pain relief. A person experiencing intense pain not relieved by OTC drugs may find relief with stronger prescription NSAIDs or other medications. Corticosteroid injections may be temporarily used to relieve a pinched nerve; however, the medications have strong side effects. The injections may only be used several times a year, and patients should be closely monitored by a medical doctor.
