Pinched nerve signs and symptoms include: Numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve. Sharp, aching or burning pain, which may radiate outward. Tingling, pins and needles sensations (paresthesia)
So how long does a pinched nerve cause pain and discomfort? In most cases, symptoms improve and nerve function resumes to normal within 6 to 12 weeks of conservative treatment. Conservative treatment options include physical therapy, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
A trapped nerve, or a pinched nerve, occurs when a nerve has pressure applied to it by surrounding tissue, such as bone, cartilage, muscle or tendons. This can result in pain, tingling, numbness or weakness, most often in the area of the pinched nerve but can also be felt as referred pain in another part of the body.
Pinched nerve pain radiates to other areas around the affected nerve while pulled muscle pain typically stays localized in the area around the muscle.
The most frequently recommended treatment for a pinched nerve is rest for the affected area. Your doctor will ask you to stop any activities that cause or aggravate the compression. Depending on the location of the pinched nerve, you may need a splint, collar or brace to immobilize the area.
Damage from a pinched nerve may be minor or severe. It may cause temporary or long-lasting problems. The earlier you get a diagnosis and treatment for nerve compression, the more quickly you'll find relief. In some cases, you can't reverse the damage from a pinched nerve.
If you think you have pinched nerve symptoms, it's best to visit your primary care physician first. It may be helpful to write down the symptoms you've been having before your appointment.
The nerve's reduced ability to transmit signals causes symptoms of numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness in the fingers or other extremities. Although usually not serious, entrapment neuropathy can be painful and can seriously affect function if not treated.
X-ray. X-rays don't give us images of pinched nerves. However, they reveal structural changes in the vertebrae, allowing us to clearly see if you have a fracture, bone spur, or slipped disc.
Call your healthcare provider right away or go to the emergency room if you have: Sudden onset of numbness, weakness, or paralysis of an arm or leg that does not go away. Loss of bladder or bowel control. Loss of sensation in your genital or anal regions.
Time and rest: For many people, time takes care of a pinched nerve and it doesn't need treatment. The pain should go away in a few days or weeks. Ice and heat: Apply ice and heat as you would with any swollen area for temporary relief.
Overview. A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles or tendons.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the pinched nerve. They may also use massage, heat, or ice to help reduce pain and inflammation. Furthermore, a physical therapist can suggest specific stretches and exercises that may help to relieve your pinched nerve.
Physiotherapy is an effective method of treatment for trapped nerves and it is important to seek physiotherapy treatment as soon as possible to relieve symptoms and prevent any long-term damage.
Until you relieve the compression that's blocking the blood flow, you'll continue to struggle with this decreased sensation. Don't ignore this symptom since untreated numbness can lead to permanent nerve damage.
Steroid injections or oral corticosteroids can reduce swelling and inflammation, which reduces pain as a result. Surgery may be an option if these treatments fail to provide relief. The goal of surgery is to remove the damaged disc and relieve pressure on the nerve.
“Exercise as a first-line option for a pinched nerve should always be recommended. It's low risk, something you can do on your own to improve your situation, and it's part of the long-term solution,” says Dr. Tambar.
Luckily, pinched nerves are treatable. A chiropractor from Specific Care Chiropractic can diagnose the cause of your nerve-related symptoms, treat the underlying problem, and help you experience symptom relief. We may use a range of adjustments and secondary treatments tailored to your healthcare needs.
Create the right sleeping environment
Make sure that your pillows and mattress are comfortable and don't leave you with added pain or stiffness throughout the night or in the morning. Moving bedsheets and blankets so they're not touching your legs and feet can also help with intensified nerve pain.
Apply ice and heat
Start by icing for 15 minutes, then wait for 30 minutes before icing again. Once the inflammation calms down, heat can help relax any tense muscles near the pinched nerve. Heat can also stimulate blood flow, which can aid in healing. Try using a heating pad or a warm compress.
Simple remedies for soreness include using an ice pack, massages, stretching, and most importantly, rest. Muscle soreness should not last longer than five days. Seek medical attention if the pain doesn't subside after a week, the injured area feels numb, or you are unable to walk or move your arms or legs.
Motor nerve damage causes muscle weakness, and symptoms may include painful cramps and muscle twitching, muscle loss, bone degeneration, and changes in the skin, hair, and nails. Sensory nerve damage may result in a general sense of numbness, especially in the hands and feet.
Research Shows Why Massage Can Help With Pinched Nerves
Try a gentle, relaxing Swedish massage, which will loosen up your tense muscles and may release the pressure around your nerve. You probably want to avoid deep tissue massage, since the deeper pressure may make the problem worse.