Pinched nerve prevention can sometimes be a little tricky because the potential causes are diverse. These pesky sources of back and neck pain can be caused by things you can possibly avoid, like an accident leading to an injury, and those you can’t, like regular wear and tear on the spine. Likewise, treatment for pinched nerves varies in effectiveness. Nerve decompression can sometimes be accomplished conservatively, while for some, more advanced treatment may be required.
Pinched Nerves in the Spine
More often than not, if you are experiencing back or neck pain, it is likely a result of a pinched nerve. Additionally, symptoms like muscle weakness, numbness in the fingers or toes, sciatica, and others can also be traced to a pinch nerve in the spine. This is because the brain sends signals throughout the body by way of a complicated infrastructure of nerves. These nerves branch off the spinal cord and exit the spinal column before extending into the body. However, this proximity to the spinal anatomy also makes the nerves at-risk for becoming compressed or irritated. Common sources of pinched nerves include:
- Degenerative disc disease, and other intervertebral disc damage
- Facet disease
- Bone spurs (osteophytes)
- Muscle inflammation from injury
- Disease or infection
- Other forms of osteoarthritis
Pinched Nerve Prevention Tips
In general, the best way to prevent a pinched nerve is to live a healthy lifestyle. Developing a strong and flexible back reduces the likelihood of injury, while being in good shape reduces the weight burden put on the spine, limiting the development of disc problems and other forms of deterioration. It is true that a certain degree of spine degeneration is to be expected as we grow older, but with a little work you can increase your chances of living without back or neck pain.
Treatments
If pinched nerve prevention has proven ineffective and you are considering your treatment options, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn about our minimally invasive, outpatient endoscopic spine procedures. We are experts in achieving nerve decompression and may be able to help you rediscover your life without back pain. Call today for more information and for a free review of your MRI or CT scan.
