Nerve pain is caused by damage or injury to any of the nerves that carry information from the muscles, skin, and other areas of the body to the brain and spinal cord. Pinched nerves are one of the most common types, resulting from excess pressure exerted from the surrounding tissues. Below, learn more about nerve pain and how physical therapy can help.

What Is Nerve Pain?

The nerves transfer signals to and from the brain and spinal column to help you register sensations and move your muscles. Pain occurs in these spots when there is direct damage to the nerve or the surrounding area, causing it to become irritated or pinched. Injury can cause nerve pain, as can certain health issues like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and infections.

The nature of the pain is unique and tends to have an "electric" quality, like a burning, stabbing, or searing sensation. It is also often accompanied by numbness or a pins-and-needles feeling.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

The discomfort of nerve pain or a pinched nerve can be intense and life-limiting, but physical therapy can help minimize soreness and irritation and restore your comfort and range of motion. Your physical therapist will assess your condition and identify the best treatment modalities. 

They will also design a series of exercises that strengthen and stretch the area to alleviate pressure on the nerve. They will consistently provide guidance on how to avoid similar damage and injuries in the future.

When a nerve in the neck is pinched, your therapist might recommend wearing a soft neck brace to limit movement and relieve stress on the nerve. For a pinched nerve in the spinal column, your therapist may use manual or motorized traction, like spinal decompression therapy, to gently stretch the spine and take pressure off the nerves.

The physical therapy professionals at The Road Home Therapy Center will design a customized treatment plan to target your nerve pain. Since 1978, they have been serving the Church Point, Lafayette, and Opelousas, LA, areas. They also provide occupational and speech therapy services. Call (337) 684-6318 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about how they can help.