Because the human body is full of nerves that provide sensation, a pinched nerve can occur pretty much anywhere. When soft tissues and bones surrounding the nerve become inflamed or otherwise compromised, they may put undue pressure on the nerve, which causes discomfort.
When we’re in pain, we just want it to end as soon as possible. So this article is giving you three great ways to help end your pinched nerve symptoms safely and naturally. These tips promote the healing process, getting your body strong and properly functioning without relying on pain-masking medication.
But first, you should understand pinched nerve symptoms to identify if this injury is causing you pain.
Common symptoms of a pinched nerve include:
- Numbness in the affected area
- Tingling sensations (like the area is asleep)
- Muscle weakness
- Burning sensations
- Pain ranging in severity from dull to intense
- Radiating pain (starting in one area and traveling into another)
It’s important to note that you should visit your local chiropractor at the first signs of pain to accurately determine what’s causing your discomfort and get the help you need before your injury worsens or the pain spreads.
In the meantime, try these safe, effective tips to help reduce your pinched nerve symptoms no matter where you are.
Tip 1: Rest the affected area
Rest is essential for the healing process. During this time, the body has a chance to restore and rejuvenate. However, too much rest can cause further damage, reducing strength and flexibility, which can be challenging to regain. A healthy balance of rest and movement is key.
Discontinue or reduce any activities that increase your discomfort, including work-related tasks and physical parts of your routine, such as exercise or sports. In many cases, pinched nerves occur due to consistent, repetitive movements, so recognize what you’re doing when your pain increases, so you can give that area the attention it needs.
If you sit at a desk all day, get up and move around at least every 30 minutes for a few minutes at a time (you should make this part of your daily regimen if you don’t already). Take some stretching breaks and work your legs, give your typing and mousing hands some time off, etc. Even as we sit, we’re putting pressure on tissues and joints, so they need to be given some support.
If you stand for work or participate in regular athletics, rest. Sit down, take a breather, and give your body a break from straining. This is always important, but especially true when injured.
Tip 2: Apply ice and heat
Ice and heat are the dynamic duo offering two powerful healing remedies. As stated above, pinched nerves often occur due to inflammation of surrounding soft tissues. Ice helps reduce swelling by decreasing blood flow to the injury, which can quickly reduce your discomfort.
Heat works oppositely, soothing the tissues and calling circulation to the injury. This circulation is vital to recovery, as it brings with it healthy blood, oxygen, and nutrients that support effective healing.
After your injury occurs, apply ice for up to 20 minutes until the swelling and pain are under control. This may take a few hours or a few days. Once the inflammation has been managed, add heat into the mix, also up to 20 minutes at a time. You can switch between ice and heat three or four times throughout the day.
Tip 3: Stretch and massage
When you manipulate the affected tissues through stretch and massage, you provide strengthening, flexibility, and relaxation, all contributing to the healing process. Gentle stretching is not only therapeutic but also promotes healthy tissues that can move restriction-free.
Massage, too, does much more than help your muscles recover by soothing them; it’s also nurturing circulation, comfort, and correct movement patterns, so your body can function well, as it enhances mental and emotional well-being.
Work With Our Miami Chiropractic Clinic for Pinched Nerve Relief
The tips provided here can significantly reduce the discomfort caused by your pinched nerve and may effectively heal it altogether. However, chiropractic services will ensure a pinched nerve is the problem and can quickly find a successful resolution.
Our Miami chiropractor will also provide lifestyle, postural, exercise, and stretching guidance so you have the tools to protect your body, reducing your chances of re-injury.
We offer numerous chiropractic solutions for pinched nerves, including:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- The Activator Method
- Manual traction
- Rehabilitation
- Corrective exercises
- Prenatal care
- And more
We know you’re ready to start moving with ease and confidence again. Let our team give your body the support it requires to perform at its best. Book with us today.
