Is Pinched Nerve Pain Driving You Up the Wall?

For those of us who have suffered from a pinched nerve, we realize exactly how inconvenient and painful it can be. A pinched nerve can occur at almost any part of the body were a nerve is present and may occur as a result of bone or cartilage pressing against the nerve itself.

Although pinched nerve pain is often associated with back problems, it is possible for the pain to occur in many other places in the body as well.

Here are a few of the most common areas where a pinched nerve can occur along with some possible treatment options.

Sciatica

Sciatica is probably one of the best-known cases of a pinched nerve that occurs in the body. It is important to note that sciatica is not a condition in and of itself. It is actually a symptom of another condition in which the sciatic nerve is pinched or compressed. Since the sciatic nerve is quite long -- running through the lumbar area down the back of the thigh and towards the feet -- there is a greater chance that this nerve can experience some form of disruption. The pain associated with sciatica can range from somewhat mild to crippling and often occurs in the lower back, buttocks or hips. It may also cause tingling that can go the whole way down into the feet.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Another type of pinched nerve which is often found in many individuals is known as carpal tunnel syndrome. This is where the median nerve that travels through your wrist is compressed by the carpal bones. This can be found in individuals as a result of a repetitive stress injury, such as that which is found whenever an individual types frequently. This also can be extremely painful and can cause numbness in the hand and fingers.

Pinched Nerve Treatments

There are several different things that can be done in order to help with a pinched nerve. Sometimes simple bed rest can help or just relieving stress in the afflicted area is all that is needed to reduce or stop the pain.

Another common way to treat the pain is through the use of over-the-counter pain medication or perhaps a prescription medication from your doctor. As long as the pain is not too intense, it can easily be controlled in this matter.

There may also be times when physical therapy is prescribed by your doctor in order to help overcome the problem.

Spinal decompression therapy is also becoming a popular form of non-invasive treatment. This type of treatment addresses pinched nerve pain that is often caused by neck and back problems.

Finally, there may be times when surgery is required in order to alleviate some of the pain of a pinched nerve. Typically surgery is done so that the bone or cartilage which is compressing the nerve can be moved out of the way. Most people view surgery as a treatment of last resort and prefer to explore non-surgical options first.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of your personal healthcare provider. Be sure to consult with your doctor to understand your full set of treatment options and their associated risks.