Pinched Nerve in Neck

Pinched nerve can be noticed at any location in your body. When a nerve or a group of nerves are injured because of compression, constriction or stretching, it is described as pinched nerve. Pinched nerve in the neck is especially troublesome, as even slight movement of the neck, hand or arm leads to severe pain. Nerves are an important part of the central nervous system. They are actually extensions from the brain traveling to all parts of the body. When a nerve gets compressed by the surrounding tissues, then the flow of the neuron fluid gets blocked or reduced, which eventually leads to degeneration of the nerve membrane. This can affect the function of any nerve cell.

Trapped Nerve in Neck

Symptoms

• Lack of sensation or numbness in a particular location where the nerve is pinched
• A sharp pain which radiates outward. (chewing, yawning, sneezing, coughing, etc. can aggravate the pain)
• Headache
• Tinkling or prickling sensation which is also known as pins and needles
• Neck pain extended till the arm and fingers.
• Severe discomfort during any kind of movement
• Back pain
• Muscle spasm in adjoining areas
• Symptoms can worsen instantly by sudden jerky movements of the neck

Causes

• Poor posture
• Herniated disc or slipped disc
• Sports activities
• Obesity
• Wrong way of exercising
• Mental and physical stress after doing a repetitive job
• Osteoarthritis
• Injury
• Adventurous hobbies
• Neck arthritis
• Trauma due to an accident
• Degenerative disc disease, mainly observed in the elderly. Aging leads to the development of this disease.

Pinched nerve in neck can be cured easily with a decent success rate and surgery is rarely required. But it is of utmost importance that, the underlying cause of neck pain and stiff neck should be found out as early as possible to avoid any further complications.

Treatment

• Pinched nerve exercises can be the main part of the treatment. You can perform the exercises under the guidance of your physician or physical trainer. Daily routines may include back exercises too which may aim at strengthening and stretching the muscles in the affected area gradually.
• After performing gentle exercises, sufficient rest to the neck area would be the premier recommended treatment.
• You may apply an over the counter ointment and cover the neck with a scarf or muffler.
• You may take over the counter pain killers or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Vigorous activities should be avoided.
• Neck braces or neck support collars can be used to immobilize the affected area.
• Physical therapy often plays a supplementary role in such treatments.
• Corticosteroid injections are beneficial to reduce the pain and inflammation.
• If none of the above works, then a minor surgery may be required to release the pressure on the affected nerve. Such cases are very rare.

If a nerve in neck remains pinched for a shorter period of time, then there will be no permanent injury. The nerve will be able to function normally once the pressure is released. But, if it is not cured within a few days, then there is a risk of permanent damage to the nerve. It is observed that some people are genetically prone to such conditions. If you want to avoid the pain and discomfort caused by trapped nerve in neck, then you should always maintain a good posture and normal weight. Regular exercise helps maintain the flexibility and strength of the muscles.