Stress Triggers This Disease!

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Specialist Associate Professor Ahmet İnanır gave important information on the subject. There are many causes of nerve compression. However, the biggest factor is stress. Nerve compression, which also occurs due to genetic predisposition, is also frequently seen in people who lift heavy loads. Stress, lifting or carrying heavy loads, posture disorders, being overweight, spending too much time on the computer, genetics and some sports activities are the causes of nerve compression. What are the symptoms of nerve compression?

Besides the stress factor; Bone spurs, Thyroid diseases, Injury, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Repetitive stress, Prolonged lying, pregnancy, Hobbies or sports activities and Obesity can increase the risk of nerve compression.

What are the symptoms of nerve compression?

A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons.

Nerve compression that can be seen in almost every part of the body shows different symptoms depending on where it is seen. But among the common symptoms, numbness, pain, and not feeling are seen in the area of ​​nerve compression. It is a symptom of nerve compression in the spinal cord in pain after sneezing and coughing. There may also be pain accompanying tingling and needle sticking sensation. The most common nerve compression that occurs in the hands and feet is restricted in movement.

Nerve compression can be seen in any age group, depending on the cause.

If a nerve is pinched for a short time, there is usually no permanent damage. Once the pressure is relieved, nerve function returns to normal. However, if the pressure continues, chronic pain and permanent nerve damage can occur. Sometimes surgery is needed to relieve pain from a pinched nerve.

What are the measures?

To provide an ergonomic work environment

You can try to make changes in the business environment. Using an ergonomic mouse and keyboard can help reduce pressure on the hands and wrists. Raising a computer monitor to eye level can help reduce neck pain and neck symptoms. Putting a riser under one foot while standing can help keep the spine mobile and flexible, which can reduce back pain.

Posture change

Sitting or standing with the wrong posture for long periods of time creates unnecessary stress that can damage the spine and muscles and cause a nerve to be compressed. Adjusting the use of pillows, adjustable chairs and neck supports can help relieve pressure and prepare the ground for recovery.

Massage or physical therapy

Applying gentle pressure around the affected area can help relieve tension, and full body massage can help muscles relax. Using a combination of physical therapy, exercise, massage, and gentle stretches can help relieve symptoms.

Stretching exercises

Gentle stretching can help relieve tension and pressure in the area. If a person experiences any pain or discomfort while exercising, they should stop.

Raising the legs

They can provide relief by raising their legs to relieve any pressure on the spine. A person can achieve this by placing several pillows under their knees, so their legs are at a 45 ° angle to the body.

Ice and heat packs

Switching between heat and ice packs can help reduce swelling and inflammation in many cases. Hold an ice pack over the affected area for about 15-20 minutes at a time, three times a day to help reduce inflammation.

Splint

If possible, attaching a splint to the affected area can help prevent further damage and help the nerve to heal.

Lifestyle changes

In the long term, adding a low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling to a daily regimen can help reduce symptoms and keep the body in shape. Losing extra weight can help reduce pressure on nerves, and the added mobility from a regular workout can reduce inflammation.