How Do You Treat a Pinched Nerve in the Back?

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Treatment for a pinched nerve in the back may include over-the-counter pain reliever, oral corticosteroids and steroid injections, according to WebMD. Other treatments that may help a pinched nerve in the back include physical therapy, splinting or surgery.

The treatment for a pinched back nerve may vary based on the cause and severity of the condition, explains WebMD. Some people can greatly benefit from resting the back and avoiding any activities that may worsen the symptoms of the pinched nerves. If the symptoms do not go away or the pain becomes severe, a person should see a doctor for treatment. Surgery may be required in the most severe cases of a pinched nerve as scar tissue, bone or disk material may be pressing on the nerve.

Symptoms of a pinched nerve in the back also vary based on the severity of the case, claims WebMD. Sometimes the only symptom of a pinched nerve is pain, but there are also other common symptoms such as numbness and tingling, a burning sensation, or the feeling of pins and needles. Some people also may feel weakness in the area, especially when performing certain activities. Many people also report that symptoms may worsen when attempting certain movements, such as straining the neck or turning the head.