A pinched nerve in the neck can be painful and inconvenient. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a pinched nerve in the neck can be caused by compression, constriction or stretching of the nerve. In addition, a herniated disk can also cause problems for nerves in the neck. The pain can radiate outward from the injured nerve, or the patient can experience numbness. If treatment is not done on the pinched nerve, it can develop into peripheral neuropathy.
Medication
Medication is one way to treat the pain of a pinched nerve in the neck, according to both the Mayo Clinic and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. In addition, the medication can treat the inflammation of the pinched nerve, which will help the nerve heal. Patients can choose from two types of medications: NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and corticosteroids. NSAIDs are oral pain medications, like ibuprofen and naproxen; however, patients can get prescription strength NSAIDs if the pain is severe. The other medication, corticosteroids, is injected directly into the painful area; corticosteroids can only be given to the patient by a doctor.
Neck Brace
Another treatment method to help heal a pinched nerve is a neck brace, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The neck brace is most effective if the cause of the pinched nerve is a herniated disk. It can alleviate some of the pressure put on the nerve. Often, a neck brace is combined with physical therapy.
Physical Therapy
According to the Mayo Clinic, physical therapy can help the pinched nerve in the neck by relieving pressure on the nerve. A physical therapist works with the patient to exercise the muscles around the pinched nerve. Strengthening the muscles around the nerve reduces the strain causing the compression.
Surgery
Surgery is another option that can be used to heal a pinched nerve. Doctors perform surgery if the condition doesn't improve after weeks or months of treatment. According to the Mayo Clinic, surgery may not be done if the cause of the pinched nerve in the neck is a herniated disk. The purpose of the surgery is to take the pressure of the nerve, which may be necessary if the nerve is wasting away.
