A pinched nerve can cause severe pain and occurs in any part of the body, but the cervical spine is susceptible due to the presence of various joints, closeness to several nerves and high mobility. One common way in which a nerve in the neck ends up pinched is by a herniated disc that pushes out of its normal location and adds pressure on one of the delicate spinal nerves.
An individual with a pinched nerve experiences piercing, burning pain as well as tingling sensation, numbness and muscle weakness. Aside from various conservative measures, there are a number of medications that are beneficial in managing the symptoms of a pinched nerve.
NSAIDS
When a cervical disc breaks down and becomes herniated, it adds direct pressure on the nerves but it can also cause inflammation. It is important to note that the chemicals contained in the inflammation can cause irritation of the nerves and trigger most of the similar symptoms as a pinched nerve. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen. Take note that these medications are beneficial since they deal with both inflammation and pain.
NSAIDs are readily available over-the-counter or by prescription from a doctor if a higher potency is required by the individual.
Steroids
The nerves are considered as living tissues that are highly sensitive to compression and inflammatory chemicals. Corticosteroids are medications that are useful in reducing pain along with other symptoms linked with a pinched nerve.
Corticosteroids work by decreasing the degree of inflammation. This medication can be taken orally or injected directly into the joint spaces. If given by injection into the sore area, the individual might experience reduced systemic side effects and has a higher level of effectiveness.
Muscle relaxants
In most cases involving a pinched nerve in the neck, the condition can be aggravated by pressure caused by the muscles that spasm. Once these muscles involuntarily contract, they add more pressure on the disc and soft tissues. This results to increased pressure on the affected nerves. Muscle relaxants are considered only slightly effective and have a high risk for causing side effects. Due to this, they are only used for a few days.
Narcotics
In case the pain involved with a pinched nerve in the neck becomes intense that the individual finds too much to bear, the doctor might prescribe a short-course of narcotics pain medications. Take note that these medications are potent and only reserved for individuals who do not respond to conservative medications.
These medications work by binding with the chemical receptors in the brain and block the sensations of pain. Narcotics should only be used for a short period of time since they have the potential to trigger the development of severe side effects including dependence.