Alliance Healing Arts

Recognized as the #1 Seattle Chiropractor for Wellness and Healing

2946 Eastlake Ave E
Seattle
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WA
98102

Pinched Nerves: A Pain In The...Neck!

02.17.2011 / In Chiropractic / by Alliance Staff

A pinched nerve in your neck can be uncomfortable and even painful. It may limit your ability to turn your head, and also cause pain to radiate through your shoulders and back. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for a pinched nerve in the neck. Self-care to minimize discomfort and prevent further aggravation is the best thing you can do for your pinched nerve, but make sure to also visit your doctor or chiropractor to determine the cause of your pain.

A pinched nerve can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks or months to resolve itself. Your chiropractor may be able to make adjustments that can speed up the healing process. In the meantime:

Maintain good posture while standing and sitting, and support the neck while lying down. This prevents the muscles in your neck from becoming strained and placing more pressure on your pinched nerve.

Avoid vigorous activity that could make your pain worse. This may be a good time to take a break from more intense pyscial activities. Yoga, jogging and careful weightlifting are generally okay.

Perform gentle stretches throughout the day to relieve pain. Roll your head from side-to-side and front-to-back to warm the muscles and relieve tension. Gently turn the head to one side as far as you can without pain, and hold for a few breaths before turning to the other side.

Get a massage for your pinched nerve if your doctor or chiropractor recommends it. A pinched nerve may respond to massage, but in some cases massage may worsen the condition.

Take anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, as advised by your doctor and according to package directions to relieve pain.