Where a nerve pinch occurs

A nerve pinch affects only two of the three types of nerves in the human body. The three types are autonomic nerves, sensory nerves and motor nerves. Sensory nerves send information from the skin and muscles to central nervous system. Motor nerves control movement and symptoms of damage include weakness, muscle atrophy and paralysis. Autonomic nerves control body systems such as circulation, digestion and respiration. Due to the fact that nerve pinches are caused by direct pressure they only occur in motor and sensory nerves.

Common locations for Nerve pinch

Nerve pinches very commonly occur in the back particularly in the spinal cord area. This is simply due to the fact that there are very many nerves found in the spinal cord. A nerve pinch in the back can occur anywhere from the neck to the lower back. A simple cause of nerve pinches in this area is poor posture. Other causes range from over-use to osteoarthritis. Another common location is in the wrist, and this called carpal tunnel syndrome. People who use a keyboard for long periods of time may have suffered this from time to time. A nerve pinch in the elbow is referred to a cubital tunnel syndrome.

Nerve pinch symptoms

Nerve pinch may present a myriad of symptoms. However, the symptoms depend on where the nerve damage has occurred. Sensory nerve pinch may present symptoms like tingling, numbness and sensitivity. A motor nerve pinch may produce symptoms like pain and muscle weakness. Other symptoms include muscle spasms and shooting pains. The symptoms may vary depending on severity of the nerve pinch and a doctor should be consulted should symptoms persist over a long period of time.

How to avoid a Nerve pinch

As nerve pinches are caused by pressure being applied to the nerve, it is important to avoid such occurrences. That is, avoid high risk activities. Simple lifestyle changes can be made to avoid these pinches. For example, a nerve pinch in the back may be caused by being over-weight therefore embarking on a weight loss diet may be a thing to try to alleviate the pain. It is also important to be aware of ways in which you can prevent the nerve pinch from occurring in the first place.

Treatment of Nerve pinch

It is very important to get early diagnosis and treatment for a nerve pinch. Sometimes, all that is needed is rest of the affected area. Braces are used when the part affected is the arm and this is to limit movement of the affected area till relief occurs. Other simple remedies are hot or cold compresses, exercise and stretching. Other treatment options include taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications which reduce swelling around the inflamed nerve. Physical therapy may also be recommended for chronic pain. For cases which do not respond to any of the above treatments, surgery is recommended. While nerve pinches may not be life threatening it is important to identify the underlying cause.