How To Fix A Pinched Nerve In Neck Causing Arm Pain or Rhomboid Pain
- Rest. The first step is to rest the affected area and avoid any activities that aggravate the pain. This may mean taking a break from work, wearing a neck brace, or avoiding activities like lifting heavy objects or sleeping on your side.
- Ice and heat. Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help to reduce pain and inflammation. You can use an ice pack or heating pad for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Over-the-counter pain medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises. Once the pain has subsided, you can start doing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to help improve your range of motion and strength.
- Physical therapy. A physical therapist can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that includes stretching, strengthening, and other exercises.
- Injections. In some cases, your doctor may recommend injections of steroids or other medications to help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Surgery. Surgery is rarely necessary to treat a pinched nerve in the neck. However, it may be an option if other treatments have not been successful.
If you are experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling in your neck, shoulder, or arm, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options.
Here are some additional tips for dealing with a pinched nerve in your neck:
- Get enough sleep. When you are well-rested, your body is better able to heal itself.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put strain on your neck and spine, which can contribute to a pinched nerve.
- Improve your posture. Good posture can help to reduce stress on your neck and spine.
- Be aware of your habits. If you tend to sit or stand in a position that puts strain on your neck, make an effort to change your habits.
- Take breaks. If you have a job that requires you to sit at a computer all day, take breaks every 20-30 minutes to stand up and move around.
If you follow these tips, you can help to relieve your pain and improve your recovery from a pinched nerve in your neck.