Can Pinched Nerves Repair Themselves

Definition
- What Are Pinched Nerves?
Symptoms
- What Are Symptoms of Pinched Nerves?
Causes
- What Causes Pinched Nerves?
Diagnosis
- How Are Pinched Nerves Diagnosed?
Treatment
- What Is the Treatment for Pinched Nerves?
Complications
- What Are Complications of Pinched Nerves?
Guide
- How Do Pinched Nerves Go Away? Topic Guide

What Are Pinched Nerves?

Depending on the cause, pinched nerves (radiculopathy) often do not require treatment, and in some cases, the pinched nerves go away as the back and nerves heal. This is especially the case when the pinched nerve is caused by soft tissue issues like muscle spasms.

Pinched nerves (radiculopathy) occur when nerves coming from the spinal cord get pinched or damaged from compression, constriction, or stretching. Different parts of the body may be affected by radiculopathy depending on which nerve or group of nerves is affected.

What Are Symptoms of Pinched Nerves?

Symptoms of pinched nerves include:

Pain
- May occur in the area where the nerve is pinched or compressed
- May radiate out from the injured area
Weakness
Numbness
Tingling
"Pins and needles" sensation
Burning sensation

People with cervical radiculopathy have these symptoms running down one or both arms.

People who have lumbosacral radiculopathy, often called "sciatica," have these symptoms in the buttocks or down the legs

What Causes Pinched Nerves?

Pinched nerves (radiculopathy) usually occur due to a problem with the back that causes a nerve to get pinched or damaged, such as:

Bone spurs from on the vertebrae, which press on nearby nerves
- Commonly occurs with spinal stenosis
Herniated discs
- A condition in which the discs between the vertebrae break open and bulge out, causing them to press on or irritate nearby nerves
Other medical conditions that injure the nerves near the spinal cord
- Diabetes (a common cause of peripheral neuropathy)
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Tumor

Pinched nerves can also occur as the result of repetitive motions, or when nerves are compressed between tissues such as bone, ligaments, and tendons, which is a common cause of carpal tunnel syndrome.

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What Is the Treatment for Pinched Nerves?

Pinched nerves (radiculopathy) often do not require treatment, and in some cases, the pinched nerves go away as the back and nerves heal.

When needed, treatment for pinched nerves may include:

Avoiding activities that worsen the pain
Over-the-counter pain medications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Prescription pain medications
- Narcotics
Muscle relaxants
Injections to numb the back
Injections to reduce swelling
- Corticosteroids
Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen surrounding muscles
Wearing a splint or collar
Surgery to repair the problem

What Are Complications of Pinched Nerves?

Complications of pinched nerves include:

Fluid accumulation which can cause swelling and pressure
Scarring that can interfere with the nerve's function
Chronic pain
Muscle weakness