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Nerve compression or pinched nerve is the reason behind some conditions such as lower back pain and sciatica. When left untreated, these conditions can cause debilitating and permanent damages. Our experts at Ozark Orthopaedics Spine Center can prevent that through early intervention.
About Nerve Compression
Nerve compression occurs whenever there are changes in the body that changes or impedes the space normally reserved for nerve tissue. This may be due to repetitive strain injuries, swelling of the surrounding tissues, or damage to tissues like what happens in a herniated disc.
Oftentimes, the pain caused by the pinched nerve is not felt on the site of compression, but rather along the path of it, usually after the point of compression. For example, the compression of the sciatic nerve is felt through the numbness, pain, and tingling sensation down on one leg although the site of compression is at the lower back.
Symptoms of Nerve Compression
Some of the most common symptoms of a pinched nerve include weakness, tingling sensation, pain, numbness, and in some cases, burning sensation in the affected area.
These sensations may be constant and get worse if you attempt to move in a certain way.
The pain from a pinched nerve may intensify overnight as you sleep and may feel like an electric shock sensation.
Treating Nerve Compression
Initially, the doctor will recommend resting the affected area. This is most effective if the pinched nerve is brought about by repetitive motion. Using immobilizing braces or splints can also help in stabilizing the area around the affected site.
Using anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and ibuprofen may also help in alleviating the pain and inflammation around the site of the nerve compression.
If movement is causing so much discomfort, physical therapy can help. Physical therapy sessions for a pinched nerve involve stretches and exercises that can help relieve irritations around the compressed nerve.
If these conservative treatments don’t provide any relief or provide too little relief, surgery may be recommended.
The aim of the surgical procedure is to provide more room for the nerve in order to release the compression. The kind of procedure you will have will depend on where and how the nerve is compressed.
End the debilitating discomfort from a pinched nerve. Call us to schedule an appointment.
Are you ready to find relief for your neck or back pain and improve your quality of life? You may call us at (479) 521-2752 to request an appointment or click the button below.