Causes, symptoms and treatment of pinched nerves. What to do if a nerve is pinched in your back? Spinal nerve entrapment treatment

There are no accurate medical statistics on the number of patients who experience a pinched nerve during their lifetime: not everyone receives treatment, many simply do not go to the hospital. It is attempts at self-medication that lead to patients ending up on the operating table. If medical care had been provided in a timely manner, it would have been possible to relieve pain and restore mobility to the body with the help of successfully working conservative methods. A pinched nerve is said to occur when the intervertebral disc pinches the nerve with the muscles or the vertebral bodies themselves. If a pinched nerve is suspected, symptoms depend on where the nerve is compressed and what type of nerve is affected—autonomic, sensory, or motor.

It is common to think that a pinched nerve always causes pain, but this is not the case. Painful sensations may not occur at all; on the contrary, sometimes there is a loss of sensitivity. It is the sensory nerve that immediately reports the problem with the appearance of severely sharp pain. If the vegetative or motor nerve, no foreign sensations does not arise. However, if there is a pinched nerve, common symptoms are more likely to be pain. Symptoms also largely depend on what part of the body the pinching occurs in:

When pressure is applied to a sensory nerve, the pain occurs sharply, often has a strong stabbing nature, can be paroxysmal or be felt constantly.
Headache, blurred vision and hearing, dizziness, and changes in blood pressure may occur. This occurs when the cervical nerve is pinched, accompanied by a disruption in the blood supply to the brain. Painful sensations in the area of the shoulder blade and forearm intensify when moving the neck and head.
When a sensory nerve is pinched in thoracic region, symptoms appear that resemble manifestations of intercostal neuralgia, chest pain is felt. If the autonomic nerve is pinched in the thoracic region, painful sensations are observed in the heart area, but in most cases this is not associated with cardiac problems.
When a sensitive nerve is pinched in the lower back, the pain radiates to the leg or hip. Often the pain is accompanied by numbness in one of the legs, and a feeling of heaviness appears in it. Pressure on the autonomic nerve leads to pain in the stomach, but most often there is no need to treat the stomach in this case.

Update: December 2018

Pinching or pinching sciatic nerve, as well as lumbosacral radiculitis with entrapment of the roots of the sacral region - this is the same disease in which pain is localized in lumbar region, thigh, lower leg, foot, worsens when coughing, walking. At first, when the disease just begins, it proceeds according to the type of lumbodynia, lumbago, lumboischialgia.

Also synonymous with this disease is sciatica - this is neuritis, inflammation, pinching of the sciatic nerve, the symptoms of which are manifested by pain in the lumbar - sacral region spine extending to the leg. When the longest and largest nerve in the human body, the sciatic nerve, is compressed, the pain ranges from mild to simply unbearable, preventing the person from sleeping or walking normally. About the causes, symptoms of pinched sciatic nerve, treatment with medications, folk remedies, about general principles therapy, we will discuss in this article.

Signs of inflammation of the sciatic nerve

Where is the sciatic nerve located? These are the 2 largest and longest nerves in the human body, which run from the left and right of the lower back to the toes. Usually, with inflammation, the patient is bothered by pain in only one of them, localized in the buttock, behind the thigh, behind the knee along the calf, reaching the foot.

With neuritis or pinching of the sciatic nerve, symptoms and pain are described by patients as burning, stabbing, sharp, cutting. They both appear and disappear suddenly, however, with severe inflammation they can be chronic, with periodic relapses.

An attack of inflammation usually begins after emotional or physical stress, especially in combination with hypothermia, and often begins at night. Along the course of the nerve, the sensitivity of the skin may be impaired, or intensify - tingling, or, conversely, decrease - numbness. At first the pain spreads across back side hips, descending to the lower leg and foot.

With severe inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the symptoms are expressed in a severe decrease or complete disruption of the function of the nerve. In this case, the gluteal, femoral or calf muscle. The patient may experience difficulty when trying to bend the lower leg due to temporary immobilization of the muscle back surface hips, and also impaired flexion of the toes and rotation of the foot.

Diagnostics

Before carrying out treatment, the doctor must find out the cause of the pain syndrome in the area of the sciatic nerve, therefore an adequate diagnosis should be carried out, since sciatica is a syndrome that can accompany various conditions.

The neurologist first conducts an examination, checks the reflexes on the legs by tapping with a hammer, and determines skin sensitivity, which allows an approximate assessment of the stage of the lesion nervous system.

To clarify the diagnosis, the simplest method available in any clinic is standard radiography, which will confirm or rule out serious bone changes.

If this diagnosis is not enough, the doctor may prescribe an MRI - magnetic resonance imaging or CT - computed tomography. If a tumor is suspected, it is possible to conduct a radioisotope scan of the spine, this is especially indicated for people taking corticosteroid drugs for a long time, as well as for HIV-infected people.

The true cause of pinching, inflammation of the sciatic nerve

Inflammation or pinching of the sciatic nerve is very frequent illness, the causes of which official medicine sees in mechanical (vertebral displacement, osteochondrosis, etc.), temperature (hypothermia) factors, as well as the presence of a tumor, infection in the pelvic area, Reiter's syndrome and other diseases. We will not list them.

In this article we will look at one interesting theory of the cause of pinching of the sciatic nerve, which, in our opinion, is the true fact of the occurrence of sciatic nerve neuralgia. And knowing deep reason the appearance of the disease, it is easier to cope with it.

If you are reading this text, it means that you have already encountered the fact that pinched sciatic nerve is a practically incurable disease; its treatment is based on temporary pain relief. If hypothermia, sudden movement or heavy lifting occurs, the symptoms of sciatic nerve neuritis return again and you are again looking for the answer to the question of how to treat a pinched sciatic nerve.

The fact is that a person cannot consciously control the tone of the back muscles, gluteal muscles, piriformis muscles, which, when tense and spasmed, lead to back pain, problems in the spine, pain in the limbs, including those leading to pinching or inflammation sciatic nerve. The surprising thing is that a person can easily tense these muscles, but he is not able to relax them.

This function is performed by brain structures that are responsible for the emotional side of human life, since all internal organs, blood vessels, skeletal system in the body are controlled mainly from the brain stem and hemispheres. Usually, positive emotions, which are formed in the brain, contribute to the relaxation of these muscles, and negative ones, negative to their spasm, involuntary tension.

Moreover, even a short-term, but very powerful negative emotional reaction brings cells, tissues, and muscles into a long-term state of combat readiness and high activity. This, in turn, provokes muscle spasm and pinched nerves, and the sciatic nerve is especially vulnerable to existing pathologies of the spine, especially the lumbosacral region, those same intervertebral hernias, osteochondrosis, spondylolisthesis, dysfunction of the sacroiliac joint and other reasons mentioned in all sources of medical information.

To finally verify the veracity of this theory, we present one more fact. Everyone knows that men and women differ not only in gender characteristics, the main difference between the sexes is in the difference in the functioning and structure of the brain, the reaction to stress - hence the difference in the location of typical pain when the sciatic nerve is pinched. In 80% of women, pain when the sciatic nerve is pinched is localized in the right side of the buttock, right thigh, knee, foot and lower leg. In men, on the contrary, in the same 80% of cases the left half of the buttocks and left leg are affected.

Everyone knows that right hemisphere"responsible" for left side body, and the left behind the right. It is also known that men and women have differences in the prefrontal cortex (decision control) and in the frontal lobe of the brain. Differences in the limbic system (where emotions are formed) between the sexes concern the amygdala, which regulates both the occurrence of emotions and the ability to remember them. The amygdala of the male body communicates with the right hemisphere, and the female - with the left.

Researcher Larry Cahill, observing the functioning of the brain under conditions of acute stress in men and women (watching horror films), noticed that in men under stress the left hemisphere was at rest, and the reaction was most pronounced from the amygdala in the right hemisphere. In women, the left amygdala was activated, and the right one was silent.

Therefore, when stress, negative thoughts, bad mood, worries arise, women become more tense and spasm. Right side, pinching the right sciatic nerve, and in men the left.

Moreover, many neurologists have noticed such interesting fact that when a person experiences stressful situations, dissatisfaction with himself, with his work, perhaps some kind of internal soul-searching, self-flagellation - inflammation of the sciatic nerve worsens, the treatment of which does not bring significant relief, but as soon as the problem goes away, internal peace and harmony are established, the person calms down , changes jobs, takes a full vacation, gets a good rest - then the disease calms down.

Considering the above, analyze your life, your emotional condition, recent events in life, what caused your illness? Perhaps if you can calm your nervous system and switch to a positive wave, this will help cope with the disease.

Provoking factors influencing the occurrence of this disease are:

Injuries, hypothermia, strenuous sports or excessive physical activity.
Infectious diseases that have a strong impact on the nervous system, such as tuberculosis, herpes zoster, brucellosis.
Infectious and allergic diseases
Poisoning, intoxication - drugs, poisons, heavy metals, toxins during the decay of malignant tumors.
Poor circulation, metabolism, alcoholism.

Pinching of the sciatic nerve rarely has one cause; it usually appears in old age, against the background of a complex of various pathological changes in the spine, vascular disorders in the area of this nerve, so this disease does not occur in children.

How to treat a pinched sciatic nerve

If the sciatic nerve is pinched, treatment should be entrusted to a qualified neurologist, who, based on the diagnostic results, will prescribe appropriate therapy:

Physiotherapy

This method of therapy helps patients significantly reduce painful sensations, but does not eliminate the root cause of the disease. The doctor may prescribe various procedures:, vitamins, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, UHF therapy, magnetic laser or laser therapy, phonophoresis, paraffin baths, ultraviolet irradiation of the affected area, electrosleep. The effect of physiotherapy improves blood circulation, relieves swelling and pain gradually subsides.

Massage, reflexology

During the period of subsidence of acute inflammatory process Cupping, general massage, moxibustion, acupressure are very effective; even using Kuznetsov’s home applicator can help the patient relieve pain and relieve excessive muscle tension. Any type of massage and reflexology improves lymph flow, reduces pain, restores nerve function and prevents muscle wasting.

A course of anti-inflammatory and analgesic therapy

The most effective painkillers are NSAIDs. This is a pharmaceutical group medicines is represented by drugs that stop the action of the COX enzyme and have an anti-inflammatory effect, these include Indomethacin, Ortofen, Ceberex, Sulindac, Naproxen, Ketorolac. All these drugs irritate the gastric mucosa, affect the kidneys and reduce blood clotting, so their use should be limited. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Movalis, Arcoxia, Nimesulide are less likely than others to irritate the gastrointestinal tract, and it is possible to use them for a longer period of time, in a course prescribed by the doctor (simultaneously with Omeprazole). Read more about comparison of prices and effectiveness, as well as about injections, in our articles. When pain and inflammation increase, steroids are sometimes prescribed. hormonal agents, in short courses, they relieve pain, but do not eliminate the cause of inflammation, and their use has a lot of side effects and contraindications.

Other drug treatment of inflammation of the sciatic nerve

The doctor also prescribes vitamins, especially vitamins B, B12, vitamin E, vitamin-mineral complexes, and drugs that improve metabolic processes and blood circulation, as well as muscle relaxants.

Physiotherapy

Even the simplest exercises, such as lying down on a bicycle, rotating the pelvis, walking on the floor on the buttocks, or any stretches, are very effective. Exercises should be performed when the acute process during periods of remission, they should be performed slowly, smoothly, without much tension.

Mode in the acute period

During the acute period, patients are recommended bed rest, preferably on a bed with a hard mattress, limit any physical activity until it goes away acute inflammation. Listen to your body, some patients are very well helped by alternating application of ice, others only cold, especially massaging movements in the area where the pain is localized with a piece of ice.

Sanatorium treatment, mud therapy

Only without exacerbation, sanatorium-resort treatment of inflammation of the sciatic nerve is recommended, hydrotherapy using hydrogen sulfide, pearl baths, and courses of underwater traction are especially effective. Climate therapy always helps strengthen the immune system, reduces the frequency colds, rest improves your mood and creates a positive attitude, which is so important for recovery.

Treatment with folk remedies

Of course, there are a lot of folk remedies for treatment, but they should only be used as prescribed by a doctor, since there may be contraindications to the use of one or another method.

Oddly enough, but any cream that contains horse chestnut can help relax muscles and relieve pain in diseases of the sciatic nerve. Typically, such creams are used for, but horse chestnut also helps with pinched sciatic nerves, so you can supplement the treatment with the following creams - Venitan, Chaga Cream-Balm, Auchan Soothing Cream (sold in Auchan supermarkets), cream from the series of recipes from grandmother Agafya - anti-varicose cream , preventive, relaxing.
We have already mentioned cupping massage; you can do it yourself with any warming cream or anti-inflammatory ointment. Apply ointment to the affected area and place the jar, move it in a circular motion clockwise, massage duration is 10-15 minutes, it should be done every other day.
Treatment beeswax, to do this, it should be heated in a water bath until it becomes soft, make a cake and apply it to the area where the pain is located, put polyethylene and cotton wool on top and bandage the compress, leave it overnight. This procedure can be done within a week.
Rubbing the painful area with tincture of pine or spruce buds, dandelions or just pine needles helps very well. To make such a tincture, put pine buds, pine needles, and dandelions in a half-liter jar, fill it with vodka, and leave it in a dark place for a week. Wipe the affected area with this solution.

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In our modern world Pinched nerves in the lower back are quite common. This occurs when the nerve roots are pinched spinal cord. This compression of the nerve can occur as a result of narrowing of the space between the vertebral discs due to protrusion (bulging intervertebral disc beyond the spine), hernia intervertebral disc, as well as as a result of muscle tension.

Typically, a pinched nerve in lumbar region observed in young thirty-year-old men, after heavy physical activity, which is accompanied by strong pain syndrome. This situation leads to injury to the lower back muscles and overheating. At the same time, the pain is so strong that it can be confused with other pathologies of the lumbar region.

If a nerve is pinched in the lower back, then such compression occurs along the entire spinal column. Since the nerve endings that branch from the lumbar region along the spine are stretched and spasmed, they are compressed and pinched during intense physical activity. Periodic pain feel in the back a large number of people, however, not everyone seeks medical help, but prefers self-medication.

A pinched nerve is compression of the nerve roots of the lumbar region, which extend from the spinal cord and are compressed by neighboring vertebrae, or pinching occurs for other reasons, including: muscle spasms, protrusions, tumors, intervertebral hernias.

If a nerve is pinched in the lower back, then in addition to pain, the sick person additionally suffers from decreased sensitivity certain group muscles and dysfunction of the pelvic organs. Such disorders depend on which nerve was pinched, since both sensory and autonomic endings and motor nerves can be compressed. When the first and second are pinched, this is accompanied by severe pain that cannot be endured. If the latter is pinched to medical care come running late, which is fraught with development serious consequences. Delayed treatment may lead to mass mortality nerve cells, and further to paralysis and decreased quality of life.

Symptoms of a pinched nerve in the lower back

When a nerve is pinched in the lower back, the symptoms are characterized by severe and constant pain. Their strength and regularity can vary depending on what caused the pinching and which nerve was pinched. If the autonomic nerve is pinched, then malfunctions occur internal organs. In this case, pain appears in the stomach or intestines, which can radiate to the heart. When a sensory nerve is pinched, the patient experiences severe, continuous pain. Well, if the motor nerve is pinched, this affects the gait and impaired sensitivity in the limbs.

In addition to pain, the following is also observed:

numbness of the lower extremities;
burning sensation in the lumbar region;
damage and dysfunction of a certain muscle group;
gait disturbance;
an increase in pain during movement, sneezing, coughing or laughing;
impaired mobility;
feeling of weakness in the muscles of the lower extremities.

Sharp pain when pinched in the lower back can last from several minutes to several days, or even weeks. At the same time, it can disappear as quickly as it appeared. After the acute stage, the symptoms of pinching remind of themselves with a feeling slight numbness limbs, or minor pain in the form of tingling in the lumbar region. However, it is necessary to identify the cause of the pinching and eliminate it. Otherwise, the problem will remain and will constantly remind itself of itself with regular relapses. In addition, each subsequent exacerbation will be more intense and serious. Therefore, you should not just wait for the pain to subside, but identify the cause of the pinching and provide adequate treatment.

If for a long time If you do not take into account the symptoms of a pinched nerve, they will certainly lead to serious complications, such as: inflammation spinal nerve. Since the muscles are constantly spasming, the nutrition of the nerves and tissues that surround them is disrupted.

When pinched in the lower back, a variety of pain sensations are observed, therefore, depending on their location, the following conditions are distinguished:

ischalgia, in which there is pain in the sacral region, radiating to the back of the leg and buttock;
lumbagia - pain is localized in the lower back and back;
lumbar ischalgia with pain in the lumbar region, spreading to the back of the leg;
cervicalgia with painful sensations, giving into the hand and cervical region spine.

Causes of a pinched nerve in the lumbar region

The obvious fact is that a pinched nerve in the lumbar region never occurs by itself. There are always objective factors that lead to such pinching. Therefore, we can identify the main ones that cause nerve compression:

intense physical activity associated with professional activities;
carrying heavy objects, sometimes it happens that a person who has lifted something heavy feels a sharp pain in the lower back, which does not even allow him to straighten up;
displacement of the vertebrae in the lumbar region;
spinal injury;
tumors;
hypothermia;
osteochondrosis, leading to a reduction in the intervertebral distance;
pregnancy and childbirth;
excess weight;
scoliosis of the spine;
lack of nutrition, vitamins and minerals;
uncomfortable bed, too soft;
due to bone growths along the edges of the spine (osteophytes) resulting from spondylosis;
herniated discs;
infectious diseases;
sedentary work, lack of physical activity.

However, it should be noted that the most common cause leading to a pinched nerve in the lower back is anatomical damage organs that appear as a result of injury, atypical joint structure or disease. Such damage is called degenerative. This is enough serious problem which requires adequate medical care.

Another reason that causes pinched nerve endings in the lumbar region is age-related changes. In this case, we are talking not only about pinched nerves, but also about other age-related diseases: osteoporosis, arthrosis and osteochondrosis. This fact greatly aggravates the treatment of pinched nerves.

Diagnosis of pinched lower back

The above symptoms can only indirectly indicate the presence of the disease. To find out the exact reason that caused pinching and pain, it is necessary to carry out a variety of diagnostic measures. First of all, X-ray examinations of the spinal column are prescribed. Additional diagnostics Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (CT and MRI), as well as a special type of radiography using a contrast agent (myelography) can be used. These studies make it possible to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.

How to treat a pinched nerve in the lower back

When a nerve is pinched in the lower back, treatment is based on correct diagnosis of the cause that caused it. this problem. If the cause of the painful condition is identified, the patient is first prescribed bed rest.

As medications speakers:

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Voltaren and ibuprofen), which relieve pain and inflammation in the lower back;
novocaine blockades, which have an analgesic effect in the places where the nerve branches exit;
ointments, creams and gels for external use, such as (Finalgon, Capsicam, Nurofen, Diclofenac, Fastum-gel);
anti-inflammatory suppositories for rectal use;
a special diet that excludes smoked, salty, spicy foods, and during the acute period you should not drink alcohol or rich meat broths;
massage that relieves muscle tension in the lumbar region;
physiotherapy, special exercises will help get rid of muscle spasms and tension in ligaments;
reflexology;
water treatments;
physiotherapeutic methods;
sanitary and spa treatment.

If conservative treatment does not bring adequate relief, then surgical treatment is prescribed. After the acute phase has subsided, doctors prescribe auxiliary therapy (massage, physical therapy, water procedures). Both drug treatment and auxiliary treatment are aimed at reducing swelling, improving blood supply, and relieving pain. For chronic disease with frequent relapses, it is recommended sanatorium treatment. An important factor in the prevention of pinched nerves is the fight against excess weight. In people with increased body weight, pinched nerves will occur constantly, despite timely treatment.

Exercises for a pinched nerve in the lower back

Conservative treatment involves taking medications: painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. However, you should not limit yourself to only them. If you perform simple muscle stretching exercises during treatment, the pain and inflammation will go away soon.

Stretching exercises can be very effective in helping to speed up recovery and provide relief. You should not do exercises with force; they should place minimal stress on the sore area.

So, for a speedy recovery, you should do the following set of exercises:

Stretching exercises while lying down

Lie down on a flat surface and bend your sore leg (where the pain is felt). Gently pull it towards your shoulder. Hold your leg in this position for 30 seconds. Next, straighten your leg and rest. Then raise and hold the other leg, and then both legs at the same time. Repeat the exercise 2 more times.
Lying on your back, bend your knees and carefully pull them towards your chest, without lifting your buttocks from the floor.
Lying on the floor, cross your legs (put one on top of the other), clasp your healthy leg with your hands and pull yourself up. You should hold your legs in this position for 30 seconds, then lower them and return to the starting position. Repeat the exercise 2 more times.
Lie on your back, place your hands under your buttocks. Make a movement with your feet that imitates riding a bicycle.
Lie on your back and spread your arms to the sides, bend your knees. Carefully move your legs to the side, but do not let go down. Stay in this position for several seconds.
Lying on your side, bend your knees, then pull them towards you, curling into a ring, then return to the starting position.
Lying on your back, raise your legs and rest them against the wall. Move close enough to the wall that your buttocks can be pressed tightly against it. You need to stay in this position for 5-10 minutes.

Exercises while standing

The legs are slightly apart, the arms are lowered below the waist. You should make circular movements with your hips in one direction or the other.
In the same position (legs spread apart), raise one arm and tilt the body in the opposite direction. In other words, if you raise right hand, then the tilts must be made to the left. Perform the exercise carefully, trying to go as low as possible.
Take a chair, hold onto it and spread your legs for stability. In this position, do half squats.
Raise one leg onto the seat of the chair. Try to sit down in this position. You need to go down smoothly, as low as possible. Stay below for a few seconds. Repeat with the other leg.

Exercise while sitting

Sit on your heels, carefully lean forward, touching the floor with your hands. Stay in this position for several seconds.
The starting position is the same, but your arms should be spread to the sides parallel to the floor. Gently clasp your hands behind your back, or try to do it as close as possible.
Sitting on the floor, clasp your hands at the back of your head and stretch your legs. Carefully and very slowly lie on your back. Spread your legs to the sides and lift them as much as possible. Remain in this position for several seconds. Lower your legs down and try to stand over your side. Do not abruptly lift your body off the floor.
Sitting on the floor, straighten your legs and bend your arms at the knees. Using your arms and torso, you need to walk on your buttocks: forward and backward.
Sitting on a chair, put your hands behind your head and cross your legs. In this position, you need to turn right and left. Switching legs, repeat the exercise again.
Get on your knees, focusing on your arms, which are bent at the elbows. Take turns arching and arching your back.
Sitting on your knees, lean forward and touch your forehead to the floor (as far as possible). At the same time, extend your arms forward or stretch them along the body. Stay in this position for several seconds.

Do not forget that therapeutic exercises are performed only in the remission stage after examination and treatment. During periods of acute pain, it is strictly prohibited to carry out any physical exercise. You need to start gymnastics carefully and slowly, gradually increasing the load. You should not perform the exercises intensively and abruptly; you can provoke an attack of acute pain.

Physical exercises performed carefully and correctly are effective method in the fight against compression of nerves in the lumbar region. Exercise stimulates blood circulation, eliminates congestion in the muscles, thereby promoting recovery.

What to do if you have a pinched nerve in the lower back

The first thing to remember: in case of an acute attack of pain, it is strictly forbidden to warm up your back. The thing is that the effect of heat on the problem area is fraught with swelling, because heat increases blood flow to the affected area. As a result, pressure on the nervous tissue increases and intensifies, which is a consequence of edema. Warming the lower back can partially soothe the pain, but not for long; the result of exposure to heat will be the return of pain with a new intensity.

When acute pain occurs, first of all the patient should be placed on a hard surface. Even the floor can act as a hard surface if it is not very cold. But it is still better to place a thin mattress or blanket under the patient. A comfortable body position can alleviate the patient's plight. Be sure to call a doctor. Before the doctor arrives, if the patient has encountered this before, take a painkiller in the form of tablets, rectal suppositories or injections. Just not all at once, one of three. If the pain is unbearable, it is better to give an injection with an anesthetic drug. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs act as anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents: diclofenac, ibuprofen, analgin, ketorol. To dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation in spasming muscles, it is recommended to take two No-Spa tablets, which will quickly relieve spasms.

When providing effective medical care, first of all, pain and spasm are completely eliminated skeletal muscles. When the pain decreases, you can continue treatment with tablets and external agents, which include ointments, gels, creams containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

For skeletal muscle spasms, muscle relaxants (mydocalm) are prescribed, which quickly restore the functions of the muscles and affected organs.

At very severe pain Novocaine blockades are carried out: a novocaine solution is injected subcutaneously or intradermally into the area of greatest pain and along the spine on both sides.

To calm the patient, a sleeping pill and a sedative are prescribed, since treatment of the central nervous system is of great importance in this therapy.

After the pain subsides, physiotherapeutic procedures, massage and therapeutic exercises are advisable. Treatment of a pinched nerve is effective in combination with basic ( medications) and auxiliary (massage, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises) medical measures.

Treatment with folk remedies for back pain

Recipes traditional medicine can be very effective in treating low back pain. However, such treatment should be carried out only in combination with the main treatment and only after visiting a doctor.

Remember! You should not self-medicate. This is fraught with serious complications, leading to immobility and disability.

Here are a few recipes that can relieve the symptoms of lower back compression:

Bay leaf tincture

Grind two tablespoons of bay leaves (fresh or dry), pour in 200 ml of vodka. Let it brew for 2-3 days. The resulting infusion is rubbed into the affected area.

Honey and flour

A compress of honey and flour is made as follows: mix 100 grams of honey and 100 grams of flour until a homogeneous mass is formed. You should get a small cake. Apply the lozenge to the sore spot and apply bandage and wrap it in a woolen scarf. Leave the compress overnight and remove it in the morning.

Therapeutic baths

Can have a healing effect in case of a pinched nerve medicinal baths. For this purpose, add an infusion of calamus roots, oak bark or horse chestnut. You can stay in the water for no more than 20 minutes.

Celery juice

One tablespoon of fresh celery juice is taken before each meal. Also, squeezed celery juice is applied to the lower back as a compress.

Fir oil and valerian infusion

Fir oil or valerian infusion is applied to the sore spot and rubbed until completely absorbed into the skin. Then I cover it with a warm cloth or woolen scarf.

Prevention of pinching in the lower back

Preventive measures against pinching in the lower back are as follows:

Fighting excess weight. Overweight negatively affects the condition of the spine, since it affects the compaction of the intervertebral discs, provoking the appearance of hernias, which contribute to pinched nerves.
Smooth back. Correct posture prevents the development of diseases of the spinal column and internal organs. It is necessary to teach a child to monitor his posture from an early age.
Physical activity. A sedentary lifestyle is one of the reasons that leads to pinching in the spine. Therefore, to prevent pinched nerves, it is necessary to increase physical activity and sports.
Relieve the spine from unilateral pressure on it. For example, the habit of carrying a bag on one shoulder, in one hand. With a one-sided impact on the spine, the nerve on the side where the pressure occurs can be pinched.
Avoid damage and injury to the spine.
Do not make sudden movements while playing sports or staying at rest for a long time.
Avoid sleeping at night on excessively soft feather beds, down mattresses and high pillows.
In case of sudden pain, consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Compliance with the above measures will help reduce the risk of relapse.

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In 90% of cases, pinching occurs due to excessive stress on the back. This can be either a one-time excess of the norm - for example, lifting an excessive weight, or periodic stress on the back.

Surely a similar problem has caused inconvenience to many people: a nerve in the back was suddenly pinched. Moreover, painful sensations can arise and disappear spontaneously, so that a person by nature will not attach any importance to this. And in vain: neglected situation can cause unpleasant complications further. Therefore, we will consider the causes and symptoms of this disease, and also discuss what to do if a nerve is pinched in the back.

Pinched nerve: symptoms, first aid and treatment

Main reasons
Symptoms and signs
Possible consequences
Diagnostic methods
Treatment of a pinched nerve

Main reasons

In fact, there are enough reasons. In 90% of cases, pinching occurs due to excessive stress on the back. This can be either a one-time excess of the norm - for example, lifting an excessive weight, or periodic stress on the back.

The main reasons include:

physical overload (ill-planned sports training, lifting weights);
incorrect back position at work, as well as constant stay in one position;
climatic factors: hypothermia, draft, etc.;
complications due to illnesses, such as colds;
incorrect position while sleeping.

Excessive weight is also a factor that causes pinched nerves in the spine.

In the spine

Most often, medications are prescribed for a pinched nerve in the spine or intercostal space.. So, in the places where the ribs join our vertebrae, the nerves experience greater stress during rotational movements and stretching.

Sometimes the cause of pinching may be sharp breath, combined with rotation, while the pain will be sharp, burning in nature.

There are constant and periodic pains. Most likely, the pain will intensify if you make a sudden movement, such as sneezing.

In the lower back left and right

Often lower back pain is attributed to incorrect positioning during the working day. They apply ointment at night and hope that everything will go away by morning. However the pain can be wavy in nature and expressed in the form of a lumbago.

How to determine the disease:

the nature of the pain is shooting and piercing, which muscle pain cannot have;
the pain is localized;
pinched nerve in the lower back during pregnancy and after childbirth is a very common complication;
muscles react to pain in the form of spasms in the final position in which a person is caught in a painful attack.

Unlike overload of the lower back, the pain does not change its focus and appears only on the right or left, can intensify and last up to several days. If it hurts on the left, phantom sensations may appear in the area of the spleen or heart. On the right side there are sensations of pain in the liver.

Upper back

Nerve pinching occurs less frequently in the upper part; most cases occur in the cervical region and this is due to incorrect head position during sleep or exposure to drafts.

However, if a nerve is pinched in the upper part of the back, the mobility and performance of the body can be practically paralyzed.

Thus, the shoulder girdle area may be affected, and if diagnosis is not made in time, this will lead to inflammation of the nerve tissues, including tumors and neurological disorders. The most common cause of disease in the thoracic region is sudden physical exertion or overexertion.

It is also possible that the arm and shoulder blade are in poor position during sleep., especially if the person drank alcohol before and fell asleep in an uncontrollable body position.

In the lower back

The most vulnerable nerve is the sciatic nerve in the lower back. By its nature, this is the longest process of neurons in our body, which reaches all the way to the feet. But if its upper part becomes inflamed, there is a risk of paralysis of the limbs.

Among the causes of nerve damage in the lower back - lumbar and sacral regions:

displacement of the intervertebral discs, in which various types of infections can enter the nerve tissues damaged during displacement. If in this case it is possible to prescribe pills and correct the situation with medication, then if pathologies occur, surgery is necessary.
piriformis syndrome;
suspicion of benign or malignant formation;
disturbances in the functioning of organs or muscle groups of the pelvis.

How to determine if a nerve is pinched in the lower back? Numbness of the pelvic area or lower back may occur, even causing problems with work genitourinary system, as well as a feeling of “woolly legs” and weakness, accompanied by sharp pain.

Sometimes the pain manifests itself only on one side, when a person stands up or, conversely, when he sits down.

Under the shoulder blade

The symptoms differ little from those described above in the upper section, but the lesion becomes localized.

A shooting sensation occurs, and the pain spreads to the nerve tissues of the arm.
Sometimes patients confuse pinching under the left shoulder blade with heart pain and turn to a cardiologist.
Pain when pinched can be confused with pleurisy and bronchitis, and cancer.

During pregnancy

A pinched nerve in the lower back during pregnancy and after childbirth, otherwise known as sciatica, can be caused by various reasons:

long-term decompression of the vertebrae and their displacement;
increased load due to excess body weight and its sharp loss in the future;
birth trauma associated with the incorrect position of the child when leaving the uterus.

Plus, the woman takes new uniform physical activity, after childbirth, constantly carrying the child in your arms. If you do not take medications in time and do not perform manual intervention, it will lead to an intervertebral hernia. To avoid this, after childbirth, doctors strongly recommend wearing a bandage and undergoing a course of rehabilitation exercises.

Between the shoulder blades

Shooting pain that occurs in the thoracic region most often indicates an intervertebral hernia. If the pinching is caused by overexertion at work, sitting and poor posture, it is advisable to undergo treatment for a pinched nerve in the back and lower back at home.

In the thoracic region

This part of the back is most susceptible to stress; the resulting pinching will be aggravated by the slightest cough.

Symptoms of nervous disorders in the thoracic region are:

redness of the localized focus;
swelling of muscle tissue;
fever and increased sweating;
sharp and causeless attacks of pain.

Thus, for each part of the back there are distinctive causes of pinched nerves that require urgent diagnosis and correct treatment.

Symptoms and signs

Classifying the main symptoms, we can distinguish:

Burning pain in the area of inflammation, which can be stabbing or shooting in nature;
Sharp impacts to the thigh, leg, buttocks area. This indicates pinching in the lumbar region, in which ordinary ointment may not help;
The pain radiates to the arm, neck, progresses to headaches in the occipital lobe - a pinched nerve in the upper back;
It’s hard to breathe, squeezing sensations in the lungs - pinching under the shoulder blades or in the area where the ribs join the spine;
Darkening of the eyes, poor circulation. Temperature and pressure may rise, sweating may increase;
Muscle spasms are the most typical accompaniment of a pinched nerve.

Possible consequences

Among the most common are complications in the form of intervertebral hernia, muscle spasms and partial or complete impairment of motor functions.

A pinched nerve also has a detrimental effect on the immune system, allowing viruses and cancers to attack tissue.

Finally, a general loss of strength and pressure changes will cause disruptions in the functioning of other internal organs. If you do not pay attention to the problem for a long time, complete or one-sided paralysis may occur.

Diagnostic methods

Taking pills at random means deliberately aggravating the situation. Diagnostics is the first thing to ensure when identifying the above-described signs.

The doctor may require you to undergo a complete medical examination to identify other neurological abnormalities, including:

complete blood count;
magnetic resonance or computed tomography;
manual examination.

However, first of all, the patient will receive a referral for an x-ray examination. On x-ray it will be shown whether the vertebral processes, discs are damaged (displaced, curved), or whether there are other diseases of the skeleton and muscles. In combination with radiography, magnetic resonance imaging or its computer equivalent (CT) is performed.

It is best if all the listed tests are performed in order to exclude the possibility of oncological diseases, damage to blood vessels and nerves, etc. Finally, the diagnosis includes a nerve tissue electrical conductivity test, which, if abnormalities are present, will provide direction for treatment.

Treatment of a pinched nerve

First aid

So, if your relative or friend has a pinched nerve in their back, you should help them while waiting for the doctor.

To do this, you must have an idea of actions that will help alleviate the patient’s condition:

When a shooting attack occurs, the victim should be laid on a flat and hard surface. Moreover, it is not necessary to restrict his movements, since the patient himself will determine the position in which the pain is alleviated.
The first aid kit should have painkillers. "Ketanov", "Analgin" and its analogues are suitable, which will soften the attack.
If the pain continues, you can add a sedative to the pain reliever.
If a person has difficulty breathing, they should release chest and provide access to fresh air.
Measure arterial pressure and give an antipyretic if necessary.
Of course, you should urgently call an ambulance and not make any attempts to “straighten” the vertebrae or similar nonsense.

Which doctor should I contact?

It is recommended that you first consult a doctor such as a neurologist. who will give directions for tomography and x-rays. Based on the test results, treatment at home or in a hospital will be prescribed. You may need the help of a surgeon or chiropractor.

One more medical specialty vertebrology advocates, directly involved in the diagnosis and treatment of abnormalities in the functioning of the spine.

If a spinal nerve is pinched, a vertebrologist will better understand the course of the disease and also determine other complications:

formation of a hernia between discs;
stenosis and neuroses of the spinal canal;
the occurrence of tumors of both nerve fibers and the spinal cord;
damage and displacement and other anomalies.

Drug treatment

The ointment and medications that the doctor will prescribe may be based on warming and painkillers. It rarely comes down to injections; most often they are treated with well-known medications. They are supplemented with special compresses based on honey and mustard plasters.

Concerning additional funds, in 95% of cases it is recommended wearing a support corset.

You should also take vitamin B to strengthen muscle and nerve tissue, phytohormones and means for general stimulation of the immune system.

Operation

If detected intervertebral hernia or if medications and exercises do not have the desired effect when a nerve is pinched in the back and lower back, they resort to surgical intervention.

The method is called microdiscectomy, in which the hernia and damaged tissue are removed, recovery after surgery takes from 2 weeks to 3 months.

After surgery, a hospital stay and follow-up with a neurologist are required.

If the integrity of the nerve is compromised, neurosurgery is suggested, during which damaged and “broken” nerve threads are restored. This is an extreme case, which we will use if the treatment does not bear fruit within 2 months.

When a nerve is compressed by a scar, they resort to release using neurolysis, followed by a course of rehabilitation procedures.

Physiotherapy

Some tips and exercises to help with recovery, along with pills and massage:

Visiting the pool and crawl swimming on the back, which activates all groups of back muscles and also trains those weakened after surgery.
Position on your back and exercises to “pump up” your back muscles, lifting your chest off the floor as much as possible.
“Cat” pose: sequential arching and deflection of the back, with rest in a neutral position (press tucked, lower back relaxed).
Twisting while lying on your side: the pelvis is in the opposite direction to the body. Caution, you should consult your doctor about the benefits in your particular case.
Roll on your back with your hands wrapped around your knees. It is also recommended to stretch in this position: clasp your knees with your hands and press them to your armpits. One leg is extended down and to the side, the opposite arm is extended up and to the side. Repeat on each side 10 times.
Spinal stretches and downward rolls with relaxed arms. The roll is a downward twist with a flat back position, you can press yourself against the wall and twist away from it.
You should adhere to the principle of complexity and daily frequency of exercise therapy, but at the same time, exercises for pinched nerves in the back and lower back should not cause pain and fatigue.

Another important note - during physical activity breathe correctly: Only in this case will we achieve the desired effect.

Video: exercises to relieve acute back pain

Back massage

To help your relative or to a loved one It is proposed to master the simple rules of massage.

So, the patient should lie on his stomach, with his arms relaxed and slightly bent at the elbows, located along the body.
If this is necessary for the lower back, a cushion is placed under the stomach.
The massage should begin by stroking and warming up the back muscles. Movement from bottom to top and to the source of the disease.
Then you can move on to comb-like rubbing and circular movements, but carefully, without pressing on the spasming muscles.
You should knead your back with both hands and end each session with a soothing stroke.
It is recommended to use the oil or prescribed ointment in small quantities.
But such techniques as effleurage and vibration are not recommended for severe injuries to the nervous tissue.

Treatment at home

It would be quite appropriate to take sick leave and spend a couple of weeks at home in bed-sparing mode. The back requires rehabilitation and constant support. At home, it is recommended to perform reflexology, exercise therapy, and acupressure.

Also, if you have a needle massager and a roller massager, it is recommended to devote 15-20 minutes a day to passive massage.

Do not forget about applications and compresses, as well as warm baths. The duration of the bath is no more than 15 minutes, it is permissible to add salt and essential oils.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine is appropriate only when combined with other prescribed remedies: pills, physiotherapy.

Among the most effective methods are the following recipes:

Larch needles: Brew at the rate of 1 tbsp. per cup and drink on an empty stomach before meals 2 times a day. The needles help relieve swelling and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Honey and horseradish compresses(can be replaced with radish juice).
Warm baths with the addition of dried larch needles.

Thus, we reviewed the clinical picture, symptoms, first aid and treatment of a disease such as a pinched nerve. Stay healthy and take care of your back by regularly seeing your doctor. published.

A pinched sciatic nerve is pathological condition, which develops as a result of compression of the nerve, the myelin sheath is not damaged. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body, it begins in the sacral region and reaches the phalanges of the fingers lower limb and heels. Contains motor and sensory nerve fibers, innervates the knee and hip joints.

Herniated discs are one of the causes of pinched sciatic nerve

Most often, pinching of the sciatic nerve occurs in the area of the piriformis muscle (lumen of the sciatic foramen) or vertebral discs. The pathology is accompanied by pain in the leg. In most cases, the pinching is unilateral; much less often, both limbs are involved in the pathological process. The condition can lead to inflammation (sciatica), complicated by severe pain. Men engaged in heavy physical work are more susceptible to pinching the sciatic nerve.

Synonyms: sciatica, lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Causes of pinched sciatic nerve

Pinching of the sciatic nerve often occurs during any activity that requires sudden movements, as a result of prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position, limitation of motor activity, or excessive load on the lumbar region.

Often, pinching occurs against the background of other pathologies, which include:

spinal injuries with vertebral displacement;
abscess or neoplasm in the area of the sciatic nerve;
osteochondrosis of the lumbosacral spine;
displacement of spinal structures (spondylolisthesis);
inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs;
infections (most often influenza, whooping cough, rubella, bone tuberculosis, malaria);
blood clots;
hypothermia.

In addition, the cause may be muscle spasms along the sciatic nerve.

The sciatic nerve in women is often pinched during pregnancy due to the pressure of the enlarged uterus on neighboring organs and increased load on the spine due to a shift in the center of gravity of the body, as well as in cases where a pregnant woman takes uncomfortable position bodies. Another period of increased risk of symptoms of pinched sciatic nerve in women is menopause, due to changes in hormonal levels.

Risk factors include:

poisoning with alcohol, heavy metals, neurotropic toxic substances;
smoking;
herpes zoster in the projection of the sciatic nerve;
overweight;
deficit minerals in organism.

Forms

Depending on the severity, there are three forms of pinched sciatic nerve:

light;
moderate severity;
heavy.

A severe form of sciatic nerve pinching may be accompanied by signs of spinal cord damage and immobilization of the patient.

In most cases, the pinching is unilateral; much less often, both limbs are involved in the pathological process.

Pain syndrome is the most typical manifestation of sciatic nerve pinching. The pain can be of different types (sharp, aching, shooting, throbbing, pulling). As a rule, pain is noted in the lumbar region, buttocks; along the back of the thigh, the pain goes down to the lower leg and heel, radiating to the fingers of the lower limb. Sometimes there is numbness along the nerve, as well as burning and/or tingling of the skin. Pain can increase in a sitting position, when coughing, laughing, muscle tension, etc. In addition to pain, difficulties arise when walking, standing for long periods of time, and lameness may develop (on one leg with unilateral pinching or on both legs with bilateral pinching).

In men, signs of pinching may resemble manifestations of prostatitis. Symptoms of a pinched sciatic nerve in women vary depending on the cause and extent of the damage. It has been noted that women often lack discomfort in the lower back.

To the most frequent symptoms pinched sciatic nerves include:

muscle atrophy and muscle weakness;
sensitivity disorders (increase or decrease);
dry skin;
the appearance of pathological reflexes;
feeling of crawling sensations;
increased sweating of the feet;
restriction of leg/leg movement.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of a pinched sciatic nerve is usually not difficult due to the specific clinical picture. As a rule, the diagnosis is made during an objective examination of the patient, collecting complaints and anamnesis. However, in order to avoid relapses, it is necessary to determine the factors that contributed to the occurrence of pinched sciatic nerve.

To determine the reason behind the development pathological process, use the following instrumental and laboratory methods diagnostics:

X-ray examination of the lumbar and pelvic area;
magnetic resonance or computed tomography of the lumbar region;
electroneuromyography;
radioisotope scan of the spine (if the presence of neoplasms is suspected);
general and biochemical blood test;
general urine analysis ; and etc.

A study of reflexes is carried out, the presence of Bonnet's symptom, Lasegue's symptom, a decrease in the plantar, Achilles and knee reflexes is determined, and sensitivity on the affected side is assessed.

Pain syndrome is the most typical manifestation of sciatic nerve pinching. The pain can be of different types (sharp, aching, shooting, throbbing, pulling).

Differential diagnosis with intervertebral disc herniation is necessary. A hernia is characterized by a longer development of the pathological process, as well as relapses of neuralgic manifestations.

Treatment of pinched sciatic nerve

The traditional treatment regimen for pinched sciatic nerve is a combination drug therapy and physiotherapeutic methods. In some cases, surgical intervention is required.

In case of pinching of the sciatic nerve, hospitalization of the patient is not necessary. Provided the patient complies with the doctor's instructions, treatment can be carried out at home. For acute pain that prevents the patient from walking and/or standing long time V vertical position, bed rest is indicated for a period of several days to a week. Due to the need for a fixed body position during acute pain It is recommended to use a hard mattress.

In the treatment of sciatic nerve pinching, the drugs of choice are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are prescribed in the form intramuscular injections or orally (capsules or tablets). With the oral route of administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, there is a risk of developing gastritis and/or peptic ulcer, therefore the administration of proton pump inhibitors is indicated.

If the sciatic nerve is pinched due to muscle spasms, healing effect is achieved by using drugs that improve blood circulation (venotonics). With strong muscle spasms are appointed antispasmodics and/or muscle relaxants. In addition, the purpose is shown vitamin complexes, as well as drugs that improve metabolism.

General therapy is complemented by local therapy - anti-inflammatory and warming agents are used in the form of ointments or gels.

Men engaged in heavy physical work are more susceptible to pinching the sciatic nerve.

Physiotherapeutic methods are also prescribed to complement the action medicines. These methods include:

electro-, phonophoresis of medicinal substances;
UHF therapy;

During the rehabilitation period, physical therapy, swimming, yoga, Pilates provide a good effect, however, these methods can only be used if the patient’s condition is satisfactory and he does not have acute pain. During the period of remission, patients are recommended to undergo sanatorium-resort treatment.

Possible complications and consequences

Pinched sciatic nerve can be complicated by the following conditions:

intense pain syndrome;
disruption of internal organs;
decreased libido;
menstrual cycle disorders in women;
infertility;
exacerbation of chronic diseases;
violations of the evacuation function of the intestines and bladder;
a sharp decrease in motor activity, up to immobilization.

Forecast

With timely and adequate treatment for sciatic nerve pinching, the changes caused by it are completely reversible, and the prognosis is favorable.

Prevention

To prevent pinching of the sciatic nerve, it is recommended:

adjust body weight if you are overweight;
avoid carrying heavy objects; lift loads only with correct weight distribution and with a straight back;
control posture;
periodically resort to general massage;
sleep on a surface of moderate hardness.

In order to prevent relapses and complications, patients with pinched sciatic nerve are recommended to:

balanced balanced diet;
avoid prolonged sitting, especially on soft chairs;
avoid sudden turns of the body, bending;
Avoid hypothermia, especially the lumbar region.

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