Nerve irritation… does it get on your nerves? 
If you have ever experienced a pinched nerve or nerve compression,then you have come face to face with nerve irritation. Unfortunately, since the nervous system is inextricably tied to every bodily function, nerve irritation can really have a major affect on your day-to-day lifestyle. This is why you need to understand what type of nerve irritation you are suffering from and the ways in which you can mitigate nerve irritation.
Though nerve irritation may be sparked by a number of variables, the main cause of nerve pain is usually a pinched nerve.
What is a pinched nerve?
When surrounding tissues, such as cartilage or bone, put too much physical force onto a nerve, the nerve cannot operate properly. When the nerve cannot carry out its functions, nerve irritation occurs.
How do I know if I have a pinched nerve?
Check out these symptoms from the Mayo Clinic:
- Numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve.
- Sharp or burning pain, which may radiate outward. When the pinched nerve comes directly from the spinal cord, coughing or sneezing may aggravate the pain.
- Tingling, “pins and needles” sensations (paresthesia).
- Muscle weakness or twitching in the affected area.
- Frequent feeling that a foot or hand has “fallen asleep.”
Be aware of the many possible signs of nerve irritation. If you think you are suffering from any of these symptoms, you may have a pinched nerve. Contact your doctor and he or she will be able to identify the root of your nerve irritation.
What are the treatments available for a pinched nerve?
Often times, a pinched nerve can be healed with plenty of rest and ice. If nerve irritation is severe, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen will help ease the pain.
However, if symptoms of nerve irritation do not improve, consider going to a chiropractor. Chiropractic methods may work by shifting tissue to alleviate the pressure on a nerve. With the right amount of pressure, nerve irritation can be drastically reduced.
If nerve irritation is not reduced by any of the methods above, surgery is also an option.
Don’t let nerve irritation ruin your lifestyle. Think you have the symptoms of nerve irritation? DeFalco Family Chiropractic, located in Auburn, MA can help drive that irritation away and ease your nerves. Contact us today and we would love to help you.
