A pinched nerve can be incredibly painful and it can happen whenever pressure or force is put on an area of a nerve. It sends warning signals to the brain. Your Pinched nerves are caused by a damaged nerve, and there are multiple symptoms of a pinched nerve. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, and weakness. In this article, we will mention the best ways to treat a pinched nerve.
Steps for Treating a Pinched Nerve
There are several ways a person can get rid of the pain of a pinched nerve. Here are some of the most common steps to follow:
1. Extra Sleep and Rest
Sleep is crucial for healing nerves. Our bodies repair themselves during sleep, so giving them more time to do so can reduce the symptoms. In many cases, resting your affected area and getting extra sleep is enough to let pinched nerves heal on their own.
While treating a pinched nerve, you need to make sure that you don’t overuse the nerve. Never damage can become worse with over-usage. A person that has a pinched nerve should avoid any sudden movements that affect the nerve. You should
2. Change Your Posture
A pinched nerve can be caused by having a poor posture. Sitting or standing with an incorrect posture for extended periods can put stress on your body, which can damage the spinal muscles, leading to a pinched nerve.
Having cushions, adjustable chairs, and neck rests while sitting can help in reducing pressure on your nerve.
3. Ergonomic Workstations
If you’re suffering from Pinched nerves can try making changes in their workstations. This can be improved if you’re using an ergonomic mouse and the keyboard may help reduce pressure on your hands and wrists.
If you want, you can use a standing workstation to keep the spine moving and flexible, which can lead to reduced back pain. The best way to find the right position and the settings is to see which position relieves pressure.
4. Pain Relieving Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications can help in reducing pinched nerve pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce swelling and get rid of pain in the case of pinched nerves. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, are easily accessible for purchase. And with any drug, it’s important to consult a doctor for dosage before buying any medicine.
5. Stretching and Yoga
Regular gentle stretching and Yoga can help you relieve tension and pressure in your affected area. Make sure your stretching poses are not too intense as it can make the situation worse. If you feel discomfort or pain while doing these activities, then you should stop immediately to avoid hurting your pinched nerves even more.
6. Physical Therapy and Massage
Having a massage at regular intervals can reduce physical pain and the stress your body holds. Apply gentle pressure around the affected area, and it will relieve the tensions in your nerves. If you want, you can get a full body massage for better effects.
Deep tissues massages won’t be a good idea as the extra pressure on your body can make the symptoms worse. Doing physical therapy by using a combination of exercises, massage, and gentle stretches can relieve symptoms with ease.
7. Splint
If you can, then wearing a Splint on the affected area can reduce the risks of nerve damage increasing. It also provides nerves with the idea of time to heal. The use of Splits is a standard treatment for nerves in the hands and wrists.
A lot of people that suffer from nerve damage also sleep with splints to prevent any nerve irritation during the night and help them sleep. The Splints help in taking unnecessary pressure off the damaged nerves.
8. Elevate Your Legs
If you have pinched nerves in the back, then you can find a lot of relief by elevating the legs. By elevating your legs, you remove pressure from the spine. It’s really easy to elevate your legs and relieve pressure. All you have to do is put a few pillows under your knees, so the legs are at a 45° degree angle from the body.
9. Ice and Heat Therapy
Switching between heat and ice packs can instantly reduce swelling and inflammation in specific areas. The ideal combination of hot and cold increases the circulation of fresh blood to the area, which helps in relieving pain.
Place an Ice pack over the affected area for about 15 minutes, at least 3 times a day to reduce inflammation. Heat pads can be applied for longer periods, up to 1 hour a day, 3 times a day.
10. Lifestyle Changes
If you want to get rid of the pain for a long time, then you should add low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, and bicycling, which can reduce the symptoms. Losing extra weight can help you eliminate the pressure on your nerves, and adding mobility from a regular workout can reduce inflammation.
You should stretch before and after low-impact exercises that can help in keeping your body flexible, and reduce pressure.