On average, a pinched nerve can last from as little as a few days to as long as 4 to 6 weeks — or, in some cases, even longer (in which case you should see your doctor). Show Considering the sharp pain and numbness that may occur with a pinched nerve, it’s understandable that you might want to do what you can to get rid of it as quickly as possible. A pinched nerve is caused by pressure from surrounding tissues that place too much stress against it. Muscles, bone, cartilage, and tendons can all press against a nerve. This can result in a loss of function in the affected nerve, which can then lead to symptoms including:
Treating a pinched nerve is crucial to your recovery timeline. More severe cases may require surgery. If you suspect you have a pinched nerve, read on to learn what steps you can take now to help and what to expect during your recovery. The amount of time a pinched nerve lasts can depend on whether you seek quick treatment as well as on what’s causing pressure on the nerve. Recovery may also vary based on the location of the pinched nerve. As a rule of thumb, a temporary case of a pinched nerve with an acute cause, such as an injury or poor posture, may last for several days. Cases related to chronic conditions, such as arthritis, may last longer. In this case, you should see your doctor for a treatment plan. Here’s what to expect from a pinched nerve in various parts of your body. NeckA pinched nerve in your neck can cause tingling sensations and pain, which may extend to your shoulders and arms. This type of pinched nerve can be caused by:
The pain will typically ease within several days, unless the pinched nerve is caused by a chronic health condition like arthritis. Lower backA pinched nerve in your lower back is often linked to herniated discs that compress nerve roots in this area. It may also be caused by arthritis or injuries. You may feel sharp pain in your lower back, as well as in your buttocks and back of your leg. In fact, sciatica may be a symptom of a pinched nerve in your lower back. Lower back pain may be acute, lasting only a few days. If a pinched nerve doesn’t resolve, however, it may cause chronic back pain that lasts 12 weeks or more. LegYour legs may develop pinched nerves from herniated discs in your back or injuries. When left untreated, pinched nerves may lead to peripheral neuropathy. This may develop over the course of several weeks or years. HipA pinched nerve in your hip may last for a few days if it’s related to an injury. If the pain lasts longer than a few days, see your doctor. Possible causes of chronic hip pain may include:
ShoulderShoulder pain from a pinched nerve usually originates in your upper spine as a result of:
One way to tell your pain is from a pinched nerve and not a muscle strain is the sudden sharpness of the aches. The pain also tends to occur in one shoulder only. Left untreated, arthritis or tendinitis of the shoulder may lead to chronic pain that can come and go for several weeks, months, or years. WristFrequent typing is commonly linked to pinched nerves in the wrist. Pinched nerves in the wrist can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. This is when you experience pain and numbness extending through your hand and fingers. Pain that lasts for longer than 2 months may indicate another underlying issues, such as arthritis. Treatment for a pinched nerve starts with home remedies that help alleviate:
The earlier you treat a pinched nerve, the quicker you may recover. Here are a few home remedies you can try right now:
In many cases, you may be able to remedy a pinched nerve at home without requiring any further treatment. But you should see your doctor if:
Your doctor will likely order imaging tests, such as a CT scan, MRI scan, or X-rays. These are used to determine the extent of nerve damage, as well as any issues with surrounding tissues. Medical treatments may be necessary for severe pinched nerves that don’t respond to home remedies. If appropriate, your doctor may prescribe stronger NSAIDs or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain. Other medical treatments for pinched nerves include:
Surgery is most common for pinched nerves related to spinal issues, but it may also be used for other cases, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Pinched nerves occur in about 85 out of 100,000 adults every year. Pinched nerves can become even more common as you age due to tissue changes, such as bone degeneration and arthritis. Other risk factors that can cause the compression that leads to pinched nerves include:
Once treated, a pinched nerve will likely go away unless the same body tissues press against the affected nerve again. Chronic compression may lead to permanent nerve damage, so it’s important to help take preventive measures when you can. You may be able to help prevent a pinched nerve in the following ways:
Depending on its location and severity, a pinched nerve may last for a few days, several weeks, or even longer than that. In the most severe cases, recurring compression against the nerve may result in permanent damage. Talk with your doctor if you experience a pinched nerve that keeps coming back or lasts for longer than several days. Your doctor can order tests to determine the underlying causes of the nerve compression and help you with a treatment plan to help prevent lasting damage. Should I go to the doctor for a pinched nerve?While many cases of pinched nerve will resolve on their own with or without treatment, you should see your doctor if symptoms last for several days. You should also see a doctor if your pain doesn't respond to self-care measures, such as rest and over-the-counter pain relievers.
What will a neurologist do for pinched nerve?It is recommended you see a board-certified neurologist if you suspect you have a pinched nerve. Your neurologist can relieve numbness and tingling by reducing the pressure on your nerves using one of the many neuropathy treatment options available.
How do doctors check for pinched nerve?To diagnose Pinched Nerves correctly and develop a list of possible causes, an EMG/NCV (Electromyography/Nerve Conduction Velocity Study) is the most accurate and correct test and is required.
Should I see a chiropractor for a pinched nerve?When you have a pinched nerve, you can experience persistent symptoms, including pain, muscle weakness, and “pins and needles” sensations. Chiropractic care may be able to noninvasively treat what's causing your symptoms and restore you to full strength and range of motion.
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