A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by the bones, cartilage, muscles or tendons that surround the area. The pressure interferes with the nerve's function and causes pain, tingling, numbness or weakness. You can have a pinched nerve anywhere in your body. A pinched nerve in one area can cause pain to radiate to a nearby body location.
Physical Treatment
Dr. Kristina Connor, licensed Naturopathic Physician, and Assistant Professor of Naturopathic Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, National University of Health Sciences, Lombard, IL, recommends that regular massages be used in addition to physical stretching and exercise for the affected area. She also advises that patients alternate heat and cold packs or showers two to three times daily to speed the healing process. Often, chiropractic care can help with this condition.
Herbal Treatment
There are a number of herbal anti-inflammatory supplements that can assist with relieving the pain as well. Dr. Connor recommends a typical combination of tumeric, ginger, bromelain, and rosemary. For acute pain she recommends them three to four times daily, and then once to twice daily for maintenance. Other recommended anti-inflammatories are flax oil and fish oil. Calcium and magnesium are recommended to help with muscle contraction and relaxation.
Dietary Care
An anti-inflammatory diet can be key in providing long-term pain relief. This means that your diet should contain fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and filtered water. Include moderate amounts of fish, dairy, and good fats like olive or flax oil. Try to limit meat, sugar, white flour products, processed foods, and fried foods.
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