There is no one ideal, universal way to achieve effective pinched nerve treatment. That’s because no two people experience the condition in precisely the same way, and because no two people respond exactly the same way to the various methods used to manage symptoms associated with spinal nerve compression. In addition, the fact that a pinched nerve can be caused or aggravated by multiple physical issues also may complicate the treatment of the condition. This is, in fact, the proper definition of a pinched nerve – compression of a spinal nerve caused by an anatomical abnormality such as a herniated disc, bulging disc, or bone spur, among others.

Understandably, many people mistakenly refer to a strained muscle or a sprained ligament as a “pinched nerve,” especially when the condition occurs in the neck or shoulders. However, whereas the pain from a strain or sprain can be treated relatively easily with hot or cold compresses and an over-the-counter analgesic, an actual pinched nerve might require more complex treatment methods, always to be coordinated by a doctor.

The Nonsurgical Approach to Pinched Nerve Treatment

Nerve compression caused by a degenerative spine condition typically produces localized pain as well as radiating pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the areas of the body innervated by the affected nerve. Compression can occur at any level of the spine, and the area affected will determine the parts of the body afflicted with symptoms. In addition, compression may be caused by a wide variety of age-related conditions, including bone spurs, a herniated disc, osteoarthritis, and more. The course of treatment will be determined by the severity of symptoms, the location of symptoms, the general overall health of the patient, and by the exact cause of the compression. On the whole, though, there are several tried-and-true methods available for doctors to recommend as they help patients combat the effects of nerve compression. Common treatment methods often include:

– Non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Whether in over-the-counter or prescription strength, these are designed to reduce swelling and pain.

– Moderate exercise – This can include low-impact activities such as walking or swimming, designed to improve circulation, muscle strength, and flexibility.

– Physical therapy – This is typically geared toward improving body mechanics and re-training the muscles for better posture.

– Corticosteroid and/or nerve block injections – Epidural shots are used to reduce swelling and pain in the affected area of the spine, as well as block the pain signals traveling the length of the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system, but they are only a temporary solution.

– Alternative methods – This can include massage, chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, electrical stimulation, and more.

Patience and Communication Are Vital

As mentioned above, not every patient responds the same way to every treatment method. There may be a trial-and-error period to determine which combination of conservative treatments works best for you. An open dialogue with your doctor is vital, because only through communication will he or she know whether a prescribed treatment method is effective. If all available conservative methods have been tried and found to be ineffective, surgery might become an option. Unless an emergency situation like cauda equina syndrome occurs, surgery generally is the last resort for most pinched nerve patients, and then only after several weeks or months of treatment through conservative methods. Careful consideration should be given to every available surgical method before consenting to spine surgery.

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for the treatment of pinched nerves and several other spinal conditions.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Pinched nerve