Pinched Nerve in Neck Causes

Pinched nerve in neck is one of the most common injuries, and can be one of the most excruciating, causing pain so great that it is impossible to turn the head even a little bit. While neck pain may have many causes, a so-called pinched nerve is actually the result of a disc in the cervical spine bulging out against the nerve root. Although pinched nerve in neck becomes increasingly common with age, due to the slow degradation of the discs in the spine, it is an affliction suffered by people of all ages and can be caused by anything from a jolt to the body to carrying a heavy bag to sleeping with the head at an odd angle.

 

Pinched Nerve in Neck Symptoms

The most obvious pinched nerve in neck symptoms are sharp pains in the neck, especially when turning the head. There are a number of other symptoms, however, that are more subtle and that many people find more worrying. Often, pain, numbness and tingling will radiate down through the arm into the fingers, or into the pectoral region, causing many to fear heart problems. It is also common for women to fear breast cancer, although cancer rarely causes pain. The pain of a pinched nerve in neck can be shooting and immediate or it can be slow and gnawing, getting worse in cold weather when the muscles tense up, putting even more pressure on the nerve.

 

How to treat a pinched nerve in neck? Probably the best way to treat pinched nerve in neck is to avoid it in the first place. While factors such as age are unavoidable, there are a few simple steps that can be taken that can make a huge difference. Practicing good posture can go a long way to preventing the discs from slipping against the nerves. Good pillows and a firm mattress can also help, by keeping the neck straight and comfortable at night. Avoiding heavy bags that pull down on the neck and back can also be key.

When pinched nerve in neck does happen, conventional neck pain exercises are often useless, because moving the neck at all causes excruciating pain. The quickest relief usually comes in the form of painkillers, with non steroidal anti-inflammatories as the most effective. Hot and cold treatments, acupuncture, and chiropractic therapy have also been effective for many people. In extreme cases of pinched nerve in neck, sciatic nerve therapy and even surgery may be necessary to relieve the pain.