If you frequently experience numbness, pain, and a tingling sensation then it might be an issue with the nerves. This typically happens when your nerve gets damaged and is not able to send signals to the brain causing the feeling of numbness and tingling sensation. This is a common nerve problem, but without proper treatment, it can affect your quality of life.
When to see a doctor?
In most cases, the nerve pinching problem resolves on its own with rest, ice, and over-the-counter painkillers. However, if the symptoms continue for more than a week or it starts disturbing your routine and exercise then it is time to make an appointment with a good neurologist.
South Valley Neurology is a community-based multispecialty neurological center in Morgan Hill, CA that aims to provide unequaled service through proper evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients suffering from neurological disorders. Since 2011, the center has been proudly serving residents across the greater Bay Area and beyond with its onboard certified neurology team providing neurological care for patients of age 6 years and above.
While all neurological problems receive expert care at this center, the team is skilled in treating migraines, Parkinson’s disease, neuropathy, dementia, and seizure disorders. Schedule an appointment over the phone to get your pinching nerve problem treated by efficient neurologists at South Valley Neurology.
Causes of pinching nerve problem
The pinching of nerves sensation can happen due to many reasons:
- A herniated disc or bone outgrowth that puts pressure on the nerve.
- Due to arthritis.
- Sitting, standing, or walking with a poor posture.
- Sports injury or repetitive actions compressing the nerves.
- Obesity causes pressure on the nerves.
Symptoms
Common symptoms are:
- Pain
- Numbness
- Tingling sensation like needles and pins sensation
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Feeling like your affected limb has fallen asleep
How is it treated?
Treating a pinched nerve depends on certain factors like:
- The severity of the symptoms
- The underlying cause
- The effect on daily routine
There are some home remedies and conservative treatments advised by neurologists.
Sleep and rest
Our body repairs itself during sleep and so sleeping is necessary for keeping the affected area at rest and not moving it unnecessarily.
Ice and heat packs
Using the combination of both ice and heat packs alternatively helps to reduce swelling and inflammation as it increases fresh blood circulation in the affected area which might relieve the pain.
Over-the-counter pain-relieving medicines
Certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines can help reduce swelling and provide relief in pain in cases of minor nerve pinching problems.
Yoga and stretching exercises
Gentle stretching exercises and yoga help to relieve tension and pressure on the nerves keeping in mind not to stretch too much as it might make the symptoms worse.
Splint
If the nerve pinching problem is in the wrist or hands then wearing a splint can help to prevent further damage and heals the nerve.
Making certain lifestyle changes including simple exercises like walking, swimming, and cycling into a daily routine helps to reduce nerve pinching symptoms and also keeps the body in shape. However, if the problem persists even after these remedies then do visit a neurologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.