A pinched nerve occurs when extra pressure is placed on your nerves by your bones, cartilage, muscles or tendons. Symptoms may include numbness, weakness, a tingling or burning sensation in the affected area and radiating nerve pain. The exact cause varies but, poor posture, obesity, arthritis, genetics and repetitive movements may increase your risk of developing a pinched nerve. Several vitamins can alleviate nerve pain, speed up the healing process and restore your nerves to optimal health.
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1 is a water-soluble vitamin that supports healthy nerve function, metabolizes fatty acids, protects your nerves from damage and eases the pain, muscle weakness and numbness commonly associated with a pinched nerve. The recommended daily dosage for vitamin B1 is 1.2 mg for adult men and 1.1 mg for adult women. Foods rich in B1 include lentils, peas, brown rice, whole wheat bread, pork, pecans, spinach, white bread, milk, eggs, cantaloupe and oranges.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that can ease symptoms commonly associated with a pinched nerve, such as radiating nerve pain, muscle weakness and numbness. It can improve nerve function and aid in the healing process. The recommended daily dosage for vitamin B6 is 100 mg for adults. Foods rich in B6 include potatoes, bananas, beans, poultry, pork, beef, trout and sunflower seeds.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that can protect you from permanent nerve damage, accelerate the healing process, ease nerve pain, decrease pressure on your nerves and improve nerve function. The daily recommended dosage for vitamin B12 is 2.4 mcg for adults. Foods rich in B12 include oysters, salmon, trout, beef, lamb eggs and cheese.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that can strengthen your immune system, decrease inflammation around your nerves, lower your risk of permanent nerve damage, repair injured nerves and reduce nerve pain and numbness. The recommended daily dosage for vitamin E is 15 mg for adults. Foods rich in vitamin E include corn, nuts, seeds, olives, turnip greens, kale, asparagus, spinach and corn oil.
References
- "The Vitamin E Factor"; Andreas M. Papas; 1999
- "Vitamins and Minerals Demystified"; Steve Blake; 2007
- "Burgerstein's Handbook of Nutrition: Micronutrients in the Prevention and Therapy of Disease"; Michael Zimmermann; 2001
- "Neuromuscular and Peripheral Nerve Disorders"; Anthony Amato and Richard Barohn; 2008
- "Understanding Dietary Supplements"; Jenna Hollenstein; 2007
