Pinched Nerve
Pinched nerves can develop when surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles or tendons put too much pressure on a nerve.
Pinched nerves can occur at different sites – back, hand, wrist, leg, etc. The most common and known pinched nerve is the sciatic nerve which pinches in the back and you are likely to experience referred leg pain. It’s known as sciatica. Likewise pinched nerves in your wrist can cause pain in the hand and fingers, known as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Causes
Pinched can be caused by various conditions including –
- Rheumatoid or wrist arthritis
- Pregnancy
- Stress from repetitive work
- Diabetes
- Hobbies or sports activities
- Obesity
- Injury
Symptoms
Signs of a pinched nerve can vary from Sharp, aching,
or burning pain, numbness or decreased sensation, muscle weakness, diminished reflexes to loss of bladder or bowel function.
Treatment
Health care providers usually recommend stopping any activities that can aggravate the compression. Based on the location of the pinched nerve they may suggest some exercises to strengthen the muscle in the affected area. Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can also help to relieve pain. For prolonged pains that last for several weeks, health care providers can also recommend surgery.