Call NowWhy You Need More Than Home Remedies to Un-pinch a Nerve
Pinched nerves can be painful, putting a pause on your everyday activities. Most people experience pinched nerves in the neck or lower back, but they can occur in other areas of the body like the elbow, hip, or shoulder. If you have a pinched nerve, you may have heard about home remedies that can ease the pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, these techniques rarely work, and you need the help of a medical provider to achieve relief. Here’s why you need more than home remedies to un-pinch a nerve.
What Causes Pinched Nerves?
Pinched nerves can occur when tissue impedes nearby nerves—or applies too much pressure to them. This relatively common condition affects millions of people each year, and they can develop from several lifestyle factors and conditions like:
- Arthritis
- Obesity
- Poor posture
- Repetitive movements
- Slipped disks
Sometimes, pinched nerves resolve on their own. For pinched nerves that don’t go away, or when they cause significant pain, it’s important to visit your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. If the condition is left untreated, it could lead to permanent nerve damage.
Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve
Wondering if the pain and discomfort you’re feeling are due to a pinched nerve? Symptoms vary depending on the location of the nerve, but most people feel pain that radiates from the area around the nerve outward to other parts of the body.
Pinched nerves in the neck often cause pain that radiates through the arm and into the hand. Pinched nerves in the lower back, on the other hand, often lead to pain that radiates down the leg and into the foot. Other common symptoms include:
- Burning or aching sensations
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Reduced ability to move the affected limb
Often, symptoms develop gradually, but in some cases, symptoms can arise with no warning. If your pain worsens when you cough or sneeze, or sit for a long period of time, you’re likely dealing with a pinched nerve. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to keep the condition from worsening.
Treating a Pinched Nerve at Home
While you should always visit a medical provider to diagnose and treat a pinched nerve, there are some at-home techniques you can try to reduce your symptoms until you can be seen. Some home remedies include:
- Resting the affected area
- Applying ice for 20 minutes at a time, several times each day
- Using heat therapy for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day
The Best Treatment for a Pinched Nerve
No matter the location of your pinched nerve or the severity of your pain, seek treatment from a medical provider as soon as possible. Often, a treatment plan with physical therapy, chiropractic care, or manual can provide immediate pain relief and long-term benefits. If you’re suffering from a pinched nerve, or you suspect you might be, reach out to the medical team at Impact Medical Group of Lutz today. Call us at (813) 536-0373 to schedule your free consultation and to receive your comprehensive treatment plan.
