Pinched nerves occur when tissue experiences tight pressure on an area close to a nerve. This condition can be treated naturally, from yoga to massage. Pinched nerves or also called herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) or herniated discs occur when the soft cushion, which is found in the tissue located between the bones of the spine, is pushed out. This problem will trigger numbness, pain, and weakness in the part of the body that experiences it. The causes of pinched nerves themselves occur due to several things, ranging from obesity, injury, rheumatoid arthritis, to incorrect body positions, but are still done repeatedly.
Overcoming Pinched Nerves Naturally
Pinched nerves that are left untreated will certainly interfere with daily activities. To reduce the pain and discomfort you experience, you can do the following simple ways:
- Warming up and doing yoga
Warming up and light yoga can help reduce excess pressure on the affected nerve. However, you should not do excessive warming up or yoga movements. Instead of getting better, the symptoms of the pinched nerve that you feel will actually get worse.
- Warm and cold compresses
Applying a warm compress to the indicated area can help relax the muscles, so that pressure on the nerves can be reduced. In addition, hot temperatures can help smooth blood circulation while optimizing the healing process. Compress the painful nerve area with a towel dipped in warm water for about 10 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, applying a cold compress can relieve swelling and inflamed tissue. Compress the pinched nerve with a cold towel for about 10 to 15 minutes too.
- Give a massage
How to relieve pinched nerves naturally can also be done by giving a massage slowly. Massage can help reduce the pain and pressure you feel. Applying a little pressure to the painful area can reduce muscle tension and make it more relaxed.
- Change your posture
When experiencing a pinched nerve, it’s a good idea to change your posture when sitting or standing to help reduce the pain. You can use a pillow, adjust your chair, or use a neck rest to reduce pressure on the nerve. Also, find a sitting or standing position that can reduce pain, and change it by doing it regularly. - Change your lifestyle
Changing your lifestyle is also very important to overcome long-term pinched nerves. You can start with regular exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Exercise can help maintain body flexibility, so the risk of bone and nerve problems is reduced. In addition, maintaining an ideal body weight can also prevent pinched nerves.
If it still doesn’t get better even though you’ve tried these natural methods, you should ask a neurologist for a medical solution to get further treatment.
