How to Rejuvenate Nerve Damage
There are several types of nerves in the body. Sensory nerves (according to Webmd.com) are the ones that affect the skin and muscles. A person may suffer nerve damage because of an illness like diabetes or from a herniated spinal disc. With proper treatment, sometimes nerves can be rejuvenated or repaired, especially if the nerve is pinched and can be extricated from the bones or cartilage causing the compression.
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Things You'll Need
- Joint brace
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve)
- Ice
- Ice pack
- Heating pad
Instructions
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Rejuvenating Nerve Damage
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1
Rest the injured nerve by refraining from all physical activity that involves that particular part of the body. Consider using a joint brace to immobilize the joint when you sleep or need to be mobile.
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2
Take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen for pain as directed, which is about every four to six hours. If your nerve damage is caused by a certain condition or illness such as diabetes, ask your doctor if he can prescribe anti-seizure medications such as Carbatrol, Tegretol; or one of the newer anti-seizure medications like regabalin (Lyrica), gabapentin (Neurontin) or topiramate (Topomax).
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3
Apply an ice pack directly to your source of pain for 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat ice treatment about every four to six hours for the first few days. After the initial swelling has subsided, use a heating pad or take a hot bath to promote blood flow to the injured area. Continue using heat therapy until your nerve pain symptoms subside.
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4
Start a regular exercise routine that involves stretching, resistance exercises and cardiovascular training. For stretching exercises, start by stretching the joint muscles in one direction and hold for 15 seconds. Relax, then stretch the joint muscles in the other direction. Perform multiple stretching exercises. Stretch your joints daily.
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5
Massage the soft tissue around your joints for five or ten minutes twice per day. Continue doing massage therapy every day.
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Tips & Warnings
It is important to use anti-inflammatory medications and ice treatments initially to reduce pain and swelling. In the case of a herniated disc where pinched nerves and sciatica pain are common, swelling and pain are worse in the early stages. Ice reduces pain and inflammation by restricting blood flow. Heat will later increase blood flow, which carries vital nutrients and oxygen necessary for healing. Exercise can benefit nerve damage stemming from all conditions. Exercise increases blood flow as does massage, which can relax painful nerve endings.
Never apply ice directly to your skin. Also, always check with your doctor before starting an exercise routine.
