A common condition that can affect people of all ages is a pinched nerve. Although the healing process can take time, a pinched nerve can be extremely uncomfortable and downright painful. If you are experiencing symptoms of a pinched nerve, it may be time to go to your doctor and ask for help.
There are two different types of pinched nerves:
- Radiculopathy: A pinched nerve located in the neck will cause radiculopathy. This means you experience shooting pains that travel the length of the arm and back. Besides from pain, radiculopathy can cause other symptoms like muscle weakness, numbness, and burning sensations.
- Sciatica: If the pinched nerve is located in the lower back, the associated pain will radiate down the patient’s backside and legs. Patients can also expect to experience muscle weakness, numbness, and burning sensations.
There are several nonsurgical treatments available that can temporarily relieve painful pressure on an irritated nerve root.
Surgical Alternatives Patients are typically advised to attend four to six weeks of nonsurgical therapy. By the end of this time period, many individuals are able to feel enough improvement in their symptoms that the prospect of surgery can be taken off the table. Therapies to be suggested may include:
- Physical Therapy
- Hot and Cold Compress Therapy
- Massage Therapy
- Pain Management/ Anti-inflammatory Medication
At what Point is Interventional Treatment Recommended? In general, interventional treatment for a pinched nerve is only recommended to patients who are still experiencing pain and have not had meaningful improvements in their symptoms, with the use of alternative modalities. Interventional treatment has promising results but should only be suggested after all other methods of healing have been attempted by you and your doctor. Some interventional treatments to be suggested may include:
- Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections
- Thoracic Epidural Steroid Injections
- Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections
Don’t live in pain, start pinched nerve treatment now! At Ramos Center, our dedicated team is here for our patients every step of the way. We offer many alternative modalities while also offering the latest in Interventional treatments for pinched nerves. Come into one of our locations for a consultation and find out how we can help.
Call us or fill out our appointment request form to schedule your visit today!