How to Determine if Surgery is Necessary for a Pinched Nerve

While painful, pinched nerves can generally be treated with rest and over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs. However, surgery may become neccesary if more conservative treatments don't alleviate your pain. Here's how to determine if surgery is the right choice for you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Rest the affected area and avoid any activities that might exacerbate the pain.

2. Take the appropriate dosage of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen or naproxen to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

3. Consult your physician if your pain persists for more than a few days. He or she may recommend a split or brace to immobilize the area, as well as possible orticosteroid injections to minimize pain and inflammation.

4. Ask your doctor for a referral to a physical therapist, who will recommend exercises to relieve pressure on the affected nerve, as well as teach you how to modify your current activities to help avoid additional pain or injury.

5. Make an appointment with your physician if your symptoms persist beyond a few months, if the pain becomes unbearable and/or if all other treatment options have failed. He or she will evaluate your injury and will most likely recommend surgery to relieve pressure on the damaged nerve. The specific type of surgery will depend on both your injury and the symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Always contact your physician before seeking any type of medical treatment.
• See your physician if you are in severe pain, if your symptoms persist for more than a few months or if the pain is resistant to treatment.

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