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A pinched nerve occurs when surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, put too much pressure on a nerve. The symptoms can vary from pain, tingling, or weakness. Numerous locations on the body will experience a pinched nerve. For instance, a nerve root in the lower spine may be compressed by a herniated disc. This could result in pain that travels down the back of your leg. Similarly, discomfort and symptoms in your hand and fingers will occur from a pinched nerve in your wrist joint (carpal tunnel syndrome).

Most people recover from a pinched nerve over several days or weeks with rest and other conservative therapy. However, sometimes surgery may be necessary to relieve pain caused by a pinched nerve.  

South Valley Neurology is a multispecialty neurology practice located in the community. Since 2011, it has happily provided healthcare to people in the greater Bay Area and beyond. Patients aged 6 and older can receive neurological care from their staff. There are board-certified neurologists with training from the top medical schools in the world. For pinched nerves, they provide therapies and surgeries like surgical fusion and discectomy. 

Causes 

  • Inflammation in the joints brought on by rheumatoid arthritis puts strain on nearby nerves.
  • The spine and its discs experience “wear and tear” as we age. Spinal discs will dry out and flatten over time. As the vertebrae (the bones that make up the spinal cord) come closer together, the body responds by growing new bones. These bone spurs will suffocate the nerves.
  • A pinched is the outcome of a sudden sports injury or related mishap. A rupture will result through awkward lifting, tugging, or twisting motions.
  • Your wrist joint and hand will become stressed if you perform repetitive motion tasks for long periods, such as typing on a keyboard. There is a chance that this will result in CTS carpel tunnel syndrome.
  • Obesity or extra weight will cause your nerves to enlarge and put pressure on them.
  • Due to pregnancy, the extra weight may cause nerve compression.
  • Diabetes also harms your nerves due to high glucose levels.

Symptoms 

  • Sharp or dull pain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Numbness
  • Sensation in hands and foot.
  • Tingling sensation just like needle pain.

Treatment Method 

  • Rest and time: For many people, a pinched nerve heals on its own and does not require medical attention. Over the course of a few days or weeks, the pain should subside.
  • Ice and heat: For temporary relief, apply ice and heat to any swollen area.
  • Pain relievers: Acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are two over-the-counter painkillers that may lessen your discomfort. 
  • Cervical collar or splint: Your doctor or therapist can suggest wearing a soft hand splint or neck collar for a brief period to restrict motion while you heal.
  • Corticosteroids: Your doctor may prescribe strong painkillers, depending on your condition. These are either injected directly into the afflicted area or taken orally.
  • Physical therapy: Light stretching and exercise will help relieve mild aches and pains and relieve pressure on your nerves. Discuss the ideal kind of exercise for your pinched nerve with your supplier or healer.
  • Surgery: Surgery is the last option for treating a pinched nerve when non-surgical treatment has failed to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Most of the time the pinched nerve symptoms fade away with time, but if the pain persists, ensure to visit a doctor. 

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