MayoClinic.com says the pressure causing a pinched nerve "disrupts the nerve's function, causing pain, tingling, numbness or weakness." A pinched nerve can happen anywhere in the body. Those with a pinched nerve normally "with rest and other conservative treatments...recover from the effects...within a few days or weeks." But it could be serious enough to require a doctor's visit.
Rest
Depending on the affected area, rest can help a lot. If the pinched nerve is in the neck or shoulder, make sure the area is fully supported. Do not compress the area around the pinched nerve as this will cause further pain.
Over the Counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers can ease discomfort of the pinched nerve and allow internal inflammation to reduce. Avoid muscle relief creams with menthol or heat-inducing formulas. Because you are dealing with a compressed nerve, the cold or hot sensations can be much more acute than with muscle strain.
Other Self Treatment
Treating the pinched nerve yourself by trying to move the affected area in ways that cause pain can actually cause more harm than good. A pinched nerve is not the same as a muscle strain or stiffness, it does not improve temporarily with use. A couple of self-treatment techniques that can help are meditation, hydrotherapy and other relaxation techniques. In a spa or hot tub, do not position the sore area in front of the jets because this can cause additional pain.
Doctor Time
If it has been a week or more and your efforts at home are not working, it's time to go to a doctor. For neck, back or sciatic-related nerve problems, a chiropractor should be your doctor of choice. However, your general practitioner is okay for other areas of the body. There are times, according to MayoClinic.com, when there is too much damage to the area and surgery must be done to alleviate the pinched nerve. Waiting too long to go to a doctor can result in nerve damage. Be open to the treatment options your doctor offers, but don't be afraid to seek a second opinion if you don't agree.
Tags: pinched nerve, pinched nerve, affected area, muscle strain, your doctor