any thing i can do to help a pinched nerve in my neck without going to the ER?

Question

i put my hands behind my head to stretch and when i did i felt a sharp pain in the base of my neck. now it hurts all the way down in to my shoulders and in my upper chest and up right behind my ear when ever i turn my head. i went to the ER but they said it could be about 3 to 4 hours just to get back to see a Dr because they were full of people with the that flu cold mix thing going around so i went home. Any clue on how i can stop the pain at home? i have put a heating pad even took some Advil but nothing is stopping the pain.

It feels like something is broken but i know that can't be it that's how i know it's a pinched nerve for all those who would ask well how do u know it's a pinched nerve

Answer 1

I had the same painful problem a year ago. The doctor ordered physical therapy where they have this machine-can't think of the name-that provides traction to the neck. It gently extends the neck, pauses, and then releases it. I would be on it for about 15 minutes and it felt so good. Eventually, the nerve was released and I haven't had a problem since. I am aware that some chiropracters must have the same type of machine which would be a less expensive way to go. The doctor had injected me 2 times with cortisone in the shoulder muscle, but, it did not help the problem which is why he ordered physical therapy. He also prescribed the muscle relaxer Flexeril. It was the P.T. that really cured the problem. The ER probably can't help you if this is the problem and would simply refer you to a specialist. Good luck because this is such a painful condition!

Answer 2

I would advise a nice long hot shower on the specific areas that are hurting. This will increase the circulation in the area. Follow this by ice therapy. The ice will definitely stop the pain and any swelling around the injury. Just be sure you protect your skin against frost bite. Also, have you considered your sleeping position and pillow? A full pillow can do quite a bit of damage, like pinching nerves in your neck and causing your arms to go to "sleep". Your position while at rest should be very similar as your body position while standing. You might even want to support your arm with a pillow. You can also take some strain off of your back by laying on your side, and supporting your knee down to the ankle with pillows. I would advise you to take old-fashioned aspirin with food. Excellent inflammatory. I dont blame you for leaving the ER and being exposed to all of the flu. Perhaps seeing a doctor privately would be better for you. Godloveya.

Answer 3

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RE:
any thing i can do to help a pinched nerve in my neck without going to the ER?
i put my hands behind my head to stretch and when i did i felt a sharp pain in the base of my neck. now it hurts all the way down in to my shoulders and in my upper chest and up right behind my ear when ever i turn my head. i went to the ER but they said it could be about 3 to 4 hours just to get...

Answer 4

I know how you feel, I have just about every symptom you jsut described. I take a loratab for pain and a heating pad works too. But lately I have just been trying to deal with it until I can see a chiropractor. Which may be a good idea.