How To Treat A Pinched Nerve
As humans, we have nerves extending from our brains throughout the rest of our body. Our nerves transmit signals to our limbs, organs, and every other part of our anatomy to tell it what to do. They also transmit feelings back to the brain, such as pain or pleasure. With a pinched nerve (also known as nerve compression), patients may feel pain radiating from the afflicted area. The pain may be sharp and make it difficult to move that part of the body without inflicting more discomfort. Pinched nerves aren not often an emergency, but it is important to seek proper treatment instead of ignoring them, as this may lead to further discomfort and damage.
Pinched nerves may be caused by minor or severe damage. For some, the pain is short-term, and for others, it lasts a long time. It is important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible so patients can get proper relief more quickly. Delaying the diagnoses will only lead to more complications. For some, the damage from a pinched nerve is irreversible. However, there are a handful of ways pinched nerves can be treated to reduce the symptoms and relieve the pain.
Attend Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a popular solution for many injuries, including pinched nerves. During a physical therapy session, patients will work with a professional to stretch and strengthen their muscles. The therapist may use a variety of low-impact exercises, massages, and targeted stretches to relieve symptoms. They may also show patients exercises they can use at home to relieve pain. Patients can find out if professional physical therapy will help their pinched nerve by talking to their doctor. Therapy is not the right solution for everyone, but it is an effective alternative to surgery for many individuals.
Massages are another way to relieve the symptoms of a pinched nerve, but it is essential to get the right kind. A deep tissue massage may not be the best choice, due to the amount of pressure therapists use during the procedure. Instead, patients should opt for massages less likely to make their symptoms worse.
Use A Splint To Limit Motion
Depending on where the pinched nerve is located, using a split may be a helpful way to reduce symptoms. Movement often exacerbates the pain and inflammation associated with pinched nerves, making it harder to find relief. Splints limit how much motion patients can use with their afflicted body part, giving it more time to rest and heal.
Most commonly, individuals use a splint to limit motion in the hands and wrists. Some take their splints off at night, but this is not always necessary. It is important to choose a splint that fits well to provide maximum support, as a splint that's too loose may not provide the relief needed.
