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Pinched Nerves: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A pinched nerve, or in medical terms known as nerve compression, occurs when a nerve experiences excessive pressure from surrounding tissues, such as bones, muscles, or tendons. This pressure can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the area innervated by the nerve. This condition can occur in different parts of the body, but the most common is on the neck, lower back, and wrists.

 

Causes of Pinched Nerves

• Injury or Trauma: Injuries to the spine or other parts of the body can cause structural shifts that compress nerves.
• Herniated Discussis: Occurs when a softened disc of the spine comes out of position and presses on a nearby nerve.
•  Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints that can cause swelling and pressure on the nerves.
• Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that can compress nerves.
• Poor Posture: Improper sitting or standing position for a long period of time can cause excessive stress on the nerves.
• Cyst or Tumor: An abnormal mass that can compress a nerve.

Symptoms of Pinched Nerves

• A sharp pain or dull pain in the affected area.
• Numbness or reduced sensation in the innervated area.
• Tingling or sensation like a needle prick.
• Muscle weakness in the affected area.
• Burning or heat around the affected area.
• Decreased reflexes in the affected limb.

Pinched Nerve Treatment

• Rest and Activity Changes: Avoid activities that worsen symptoms and give the body time to recover.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce inflammation and pain as well as medications for neuropathic pain such as pregabalin and gabapentin.
• Physiotherapy: Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the affected area and reduce pressure on the nerves.
• Hot or Cold Compresses: The use of hot or cold compresses can help reduce swelling and pain.
• Posture Change: Adopt correct and ergonomic posture, both when sitting, standing, and lifting objects.
• Surgery: If conservative treatment is unsuccessful, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Reference :

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pinched-nerve/symptoms-causes/syc-20354746
https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/compressed-nerves
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/cervical-radiculopathy-pinched-nerve/