1. It Doesn't Take a Lot
Pinched nerves occur when the surrounding tissues compress the nerve compresses. In some cases, a bone causes the compressed nerve--a herniated disk, for example, can pinch a nerve. Other times, it can be muscle or a tendon that causes the nerve compression. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the muscles and tendons compress the nerve in the arm, causing nerve inflammation.
2. It's Neurological
When people think neurologist, they think brain. However, neurologists are the doctors who diagnose and treat nerve problems. By using electrodes and sometimes needles, they use electric shocks to find where the nerve is damaged and if there's any simultaneous muscle nerve damage. An MRI may be done to confirm the finding if necessary, although this is not common.
3. Here One Day, Gone the Next
Many pinched nerves resolve themselves. As frustrating as it is to have one, it's even more frustrating to know that there's not a cause usually. One day the symptoms are just gone. It leaves you wondering where it came from and if it will come back again. Even worse: it's impossible to know if it will come back unless the neurologist finds the cause, which doesn't happen very often.
4. Take It Easy
The most important thing to remember for relief is to avoid activities that cause pain. Pinched nerves also cause numbness in some cases. In these instances, the patient needs to avoid activities that require stabilization of that body part. Those with a numb foot, for example, shouldn't wear high heels. By taking care of the body, the pinched nerve heals faster. Reassess old ways before going back to them; for instance, the heels may be one of the causes of the pinched nerve. You may find a repeat occurrence if you jump back into the shoes after the initial pinched nerve has healed.
5. Change Your Exercise Routine
If a pinched nerve causes a numb foot, it nixes running from a fitness routine. However, that's no reason to give up working out. Swimming, cycling and weight lifting are other great cardiovascular activities that help you stay in shape while not putting too much stress on the foot. It also makes it easier to remember that at some point, it will go away and you can resume normal activity. Think of it as a temporary break from the norm.
