
4 At-Home Pinched Nerve Options for Relief
Pinched nerves occur when surrounding tissues put excessive pressure on the nerve. Dealing with the discomfort of a pinched nerve can be challenging but there are ways to find relief. Certain over-the-counter topical products, as well as changes to your routine, can be beneficial and may help you feel some temporary relief from discomfort caused by a pinched nerve.
Learning how to manage the discomfort you feel from a pinched nerve can make a world of difference in your everyday life. Explore how these four methods could help temporarily soothe discomfort from pinched nerves and you may just find that you’re back to feeling like your old self. As always, consult your doctor, physical therapist or other medical professional if you have questions or concerns about your pinched nerves.
Rest and Position Changes
If If you find yourself saddled with a pinched nerve, start by getting adequate rest. Allowing your body to rest can help to reduce nerve pressure and alleviate pain.1 However, it may be necessary to change your position frequently.
Staying in one position for too long can aggravate the nerves. Find positions that minimize your discomfort and try to move gently occasionally to help prevent stiffness and increase circulation.
Additionally, using supportive cushions or adjustable chairs that help maintain good posture and relieve pressure on affected areas can help. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness further to reduce tension in the body and support recovery.
Integrating these habits into your routine may reduce the likelihood of further nerve irritation.
Heat and Ice Therapy
Switching between hot and cold treatments is a popular strategy for helping relieve inflammation and easing discomfort associated with nerves.2 Placing a heated compress or pad on the area can calm tight muscles and promote circulation. After applying heat, follow up by applying a cold pack to the area to help reduce inflammation.
Each application of heat and cold should be maintained for roughly 15-20 minutes and repeated every few hours. It’s important to always place a fabric layer between your skin and the heat or ice source for safety.
Gentle Stretching and Exercise
If you’re looking for an easy to apply, natural, over-the-counter topical nerve relief option, try Theraworx®. Theraworx for Nerve Relief and our Maximum Strength Pain Relief products help with your discomfort and help provide temporary pain relief.
The fast-acting, gentle Theraworx Nerve Relief helps deliver the relief you need to manage daily activities with less discomfort. Theraworx also offers a general Pain Relief roll-on, made with lidocaine HCl 4%, which offers maximum-strength pain relief for multiple types of pain. Use all Theraworx products as directed and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about ongoing relief needs.
If you’re experiencing a pinched nerve, these four at-home tips may help improve your overall well-being. Remember, take early and effective action to maintain your health now and in the future.
This content is not medical advice and should not replace your doctor’s recommendations.
Sources:
- Johnson, J. (November, 2023). How to treat a pinched nerve. MedicalNewsToday. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320045
- Nadler, S. F., Weingand, K., & Kruse, R. J. (2004). The physiologic basis and clinical applications of cryotherapy and thermotherapy for the pain practitioner. Pain Physician, 7(3), 395-399. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16858479/