Pinched Nerve Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
A pinched nerve or HNP ( hernia nucleus pulposus ) is a condition when the intervertebral discs, which are soft and like jelly, protrude so that they suppress the surrounding nerves.
When a pinched nerve is experienced, the body will send a “signal” in the form of pain.
If this happens, you should not underestimate it, before nerve damage becomes a complication.
Complications of HNP that can occur are cauda equina syndrome.
Symptoms include weakness in both legs, an inability to feel touch, and an inability to hold or control urination.
Recognize the symptoms, and immediately consult a doctor if you experience the signs.
The following is an explanation of pinched nerves.
Pinched Nerve Symptoms
The characteristics of a pinched nerve can vary, depending on the position and size of the herniation.
In general, the most common symptom of HNP is pain. Mild HNP cases often do not cause symptoms, but symptoms of severe pain can also appear.
Some of the symptoms of pinched nerves that are often complained of include:
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Nyeri
As previously mentioned, one of the common symptoms of a pinched nerve is pain. Complaints of this pain usually appear at the location of the occurrence of HNP.
For example, if a pinched nerve occurs in the spine or lower back, symptoms of back pain will appear.
Likewise, if HNP occurs in the neck, the symptoms that appear can be pain in the neck.
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The feeling of being pricked by needles to a burning sensation
Some people with pinched nerves describe pain that appears as stabbing or burning pain.
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Spread of Pain
Complaints of pain that feel sharp and disturbing are also accompanied by spreading.
Usually, the pinched nerve in the back gives pain spread to the buttocks area to the thighs, calves, and feet.
Meanwhile, if a pinched nerve occurs in the neck area it can cause pain to radiate to the shoulder or arm.
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pins and needles
Apart from pain, people with pinched nerves can also complain of tingling in the affected part of the body.
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Reduced Sensation or Numbness in the Affected Area
Not only does it cause tingling, due to a pinched nerve, complaints of lack of sensation and numbness in the affected part can also appear.
These complaints are generally quite disturbing because they make the sufferer uncomfortable.
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Weakness
The muscles in the pinched nerve will usually weaken.
As a result, HNP sufferers will find it increasingly difficult to lift weights, move, or even hold.
Pinched Nerve Reason
There are several factors that can cause pinched nerves or HNP.
- Age factor. As you get older, the vertebral discs (connections between the bones) become less flexible and tear easily.
- genetic factor.
- Injury to the spine.
- Often do activities that burden the spine, for example lifting heavy weights.
- Overweight. This causes the load on the spine to increase.
Diagnosis
Pinched nerves or HNP can be detected through medical interviews, physical examinations, and supporting examinations.
Physical examination which is to assess reflexes, muscle strength (motor), ability to walk, and sensory function.
To support the diagnosis, the doctor will usually suggest radiological examinations, in the form of:
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Shinar X
X-rays cannot detect the presence of HNP. However, this method can rule out other possible causes of back pain.
Such as infection, deformity or damage to the spine, and the position of the spine.
Can assess the condition of the spine from various directions and assess the soft tissue bone structure.
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MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
MRI is the best-supporting examination in detecting HNP and assessing which part of the nerve is affected.
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Myelogram
A myelogram is performed by injecting contrast (a material to clarify radiographic examinations) into the spinal fluid which is located in the spine.
Next, just do an X-ray examination. This test can show pressure on the spine or nerves from HNP or other causes.
Pinched Nerve Treatment
Treatment for pinched nerves depends on the patient’s own condition, namely how much pain appears and the severity of the HNP.
The length of treatment for a pinched nerve can also be different for each person.
In general, treatment and therapy for pinched nerves is divided into several parts, such as:
1. Drugs
The following are drug options that can be consumed by people with a pinched nerve:
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Painkillers
If the degree of pain is still mild, you can buy over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen.
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Opioid
If the degree of pain is severe, the doctor will usually give an opioid class of pain medication.
Side effects that can appear include nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
This medicine can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription and must be under the supervision of a doctor.
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Nerve Pain Relief
This drug is the second drug that is routinely given to people with pinched nerves after painkillers. For example, amitriptyline and gabapentin.
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Muscle Relaxant or Muscle Relaxant
This drug is given to reduce muscle tension or stiffness.
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Epidural Steroid Injections
Epidural steroid injections help reduce complaints of pain due to HNP.
2. Physiotherapy
Several types of pinched nerve therapy that can be done, namely:
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Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
Using electrical energy to stimulate the nervous system through the skin surface to relieve pain.
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Traction
Using objects with a certain weight to deal with damage or disorders of the bones and muscles.
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Use of Corset or Brace
3. Operation
Pinched nerve surgery is performed to reduce pressure on the nerve. The indications are:
- no change after 6 weeks of drug therapy and physiotherapy
- symptoms appear in the form of weakness in certain body parts, sensory disturbances, difficulty moving, unable to control urination or defecation
For the treatment of a pinched nerve that can be done at home, for example:
- Sleep on the floor or on a mattress with a board underneath so the mattress doesn’t buckle.
If you still want to sleep on a bed, add a pillow under your head and under your knees, or sleep on your side. Don’t sleep in the same position for a long time.
- Take painkillers regularly according to the doctor’s advice. Don’t wait until the pain gets worse.
- Warm or cold compresses for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
Prevention
To prevent pinched nerves or HNP, you can do a number of things, such as:
- Maintain an ideal weight
- Regular exercise. The type of exercise that can be done is one that strengthens the back muscles
- Do not smoke
- Pay attention to body position when sitting, moving, or lifting weights