How is a pinched nerve treated?
Support braces In many cases a pinched nerve can be treated with rest and ice. If the pinched nerve is in the arm (carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome) the doctor may recommend a brace for a short period of time. The brace limits the amount of movement around the nerve, which allows it to rest and recover. The brace also prevents the patient from movements that may further compress or pinch the affected nerve. A brace used for carpal tunnel syndrome covers the wrist and and is extended slightly back. This is because during flexion (bending the wrist down) the median nerve in the wrist is further pinched. The brace for cubital tunnel syndrome in the elbow can be used to keep the elbow from bending too much which further stretches the ulnar nerve. Medication Various medications can also be used to treat a pinched nerve. Anti-inflammatory medications, for example, ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce the inflammation (swelling) around the affected nerve. Other medications used s
