{"id":7742,"date":"2019-07-03T05:41:56","date_gmt":"2019-07-03T05:41:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/?p=7742"},"modified":"2021-04-19T16:04:18","modified_gmt":"2021-04-19T16:04:18","slug":"16-effective-home-remedies-for-nerve-pain","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/16-effective-home-remedies-for-nerve-pain\/","title":{"rendered":"16 Effective Home Remedies for Nerve Pain"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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From injuries to motor neuron diseases, and from shingles to cancer, there are a variety of factors that can contribute to nerve pain. The nerve system is so complex and it can be damaged in a multitude of ways, but no matter the cause, one thing\u2019s for sure; nerve pain can be debilitating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are suffering from nerve pain, there\u2019s no doubt that it has impacted your life in a significant way. Depending on the cause of nerve pain, it may eventually subside; however, in many cases, this type of discomfort is chronic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Medications can provide relief, but they may not be as effective as one would hope; plus, there can be a range of side effects associated with pain medications, and those effects can be severe and long-lasting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Home remedies may be more effective, and they don\u2019t come with unwanted negative effects that are associated with synthetic treatments.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. B12 Vitamins. <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Vitamin deficiencies are a leading cause of nerve pain; specifically vitamin B12<\/a>. This vitamin plays a crucial role in a person\u2019s overall health and well-being, as it plays a key part in the production of red blood cells and DNA. While it is an essential vitamin, the body does not naturally produce B12; instead, it must be obtained through diet.\u00a0
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Individuals who are not ingesting enough vitamin B12 can suffer from a deficiency, which can lead to nerve pain. You can increase your intake of foods that are rich in B12, such as leafy greens and eggs; or, to ensure you are getting the necessary amount, you can take a supplement.  
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For adults, the recommended daily intake of B12 is 1.8 mcg. By taking a vitamin supplement, you may be able to reduce any nerve pain that you may be experiencing as a result of a deficiency. 
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2. Fish oil.<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Adding a fish oil <\/a>supplement to your diet could help to relieve nerve pain. It is comprised of essential omega 3 fatty acids, which have been found to enhance the healing process and reduce inflammation; two factors that can significantly reduce nerve pain, especially for nerve pain that is related to an injury.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fish oil can also help to soothe muscle aches and pains. A number of studies have found that omega fatty acids found in fish oil can effectively repair nerve damage and provide pain relief. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are a number of foods that you can take that are also rich in the omega fatty acids that fish oil contains, including salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and flaxseeds; however, ensuring that you\u2019re taking adequate amounts through diet can be difficult. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more promising effects, try taking fish oil in a supplement form; between 2,400 and 5,400 mg each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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3. Alpha-lipoic acid. <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Antioxidants <\/a>may be able to provide relief from nerve pain, too; specifically, alpha-lipoic acid. Studies have found that it can help to improve the function of the nerves, thereby repairing any damage that may be causing pain. It has also been determined that alpha-lipoic acid can effectively reduce blood sugar levels; hence, it may be an ideal natural remedy for diabetic patients who are suffering from neuropathy (nerve pain).\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Several foods contain this beneficial antioxidant, including red meat, broccoli, brewer\u2019s yeast, liver, Brussels sprouts, and spinach; but again, trying to ensure that you are getting the proper amount needed to ease your pain through diet alone can be tough. Instead, intravenous administration of alpha-lipoic acid or ingesting an oral supplement is recommended. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you opt for the latter (which is easier), you can take between 600 and 1,200 mg of the supplement in a capsule each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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4. Turmeric. <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An aromatic, yellow spice that has long been hailed for its medicinal properties in India can prove to be a beneficial natural remedy for nerve pain. It contains curcumin, a compound that has been proven to offer medicinal properties. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Curcumin <\/a>is an antioxidant and it contains very powerful anti-inflammatory properties; it is also an analgesic. Together, these three elements make it a highly effective natural remedy for treating nerve pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Studies have revealed that the curcumin found in turmeric effectively reduces inflammation, relieves nerve pain, and even restore the loss of function that is related to nerve pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You could add the spice to your diet through food and drink; however, if you want to receive the full effects that turmeric offers, your best bet is to take a supplement. That\u2019s because supplements contain higher amounts of curcumin, the key compound that combats pain, than the cooking spice.  
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5. Essential oils. <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Compounds that are extracted from various types of plants, essential oils have long been used as homeopathic remedies for a variety of ailments, including stress<\/a>, anxiety, and even memory loss. They can also be used as an effective remedy for nerve pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The essential oils that provide the most profound effects for nerve pain include peppermint, lemon, Ylang-Ylang, tea tree, lavender, and chamomile. These oils, in particular, contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to soothe inflammation of the nerves, thereby reducing pain. They can also help to boost circulation throughout the body, which can also play a role in the reduction of nerve pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To use essential oils for nerve pain, apply a few drops to a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, to create a topical solution. Work directly into the affected site a few times a day and you might notice a distinct improvement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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6. Epsom salt bath.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Believe it or not, something as simple as taking a long soak in a bath filled with Epsom salt may provide much-needed relief for nerve pain. Warm water can help to boost the circulation of blood throughout the body, which in itself can help to minimize the pain that is associated with nerve damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The addition of Epsom salt<\/a> can provide even greater pain relief. Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a naturally occurring compound that has been used as a natural treatment for a variety of conditions; such as nerve pain. It contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to restore the function of damaged nerves, thereby reducing pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Magnesium is an essential nutrient that many people are deficient in. By soaking in a bath filled with Epsom salt, your body can absorb the nutrient, which can help to restore healthy levels, thereby reducing pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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7. Acupuncture. <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An ancient form of Chinese medicine, acupuncture <\/a>can be a highly effective treatment for nerve pain. The process involves placing small, hair-thin needles shallowly through the skin.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The needles are placed at precise pressure points around the body, which, according to ancient Eastern medicine, is said to balance qi (\u201cchee\u201d), or the flow of energy. Balancing the flow of energy is said to stimulate natural healing abilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Western philosophies, the process of acupuncture activates the muscles and nerves, which improves blood circulation, which has been proven to repair nerve damage. It also improves the response to pain by encouraging the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals, by the nervous system. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Acupuncture can help to minimize the effects of nerve pain that an individual experiences. This natural remedy is used to treat nerve pain that is caused by a variety of conditions, including auto-immune disorders and cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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8. Exercise<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The last thing you probably want to do when you are experiencing the pain of any kind is exercise<\/a>; especially if that pain is severe. However, exercise can actually provide much-needed pain relief, so it may be worth your while to pull out a pair of sneakers and hit the track, the trail, your neighborhood streets \u2013 or any other kind of exercise that you find enjoyable.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s no secret that exercise plays a key role in maintaining a healthy weight, which in itself can provide pain relief; however, being active also proves to be an effective remedy for nerve pain for other reasons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exercise has been proven to reduce blood sugar levels, which can minimize the effects of nerve damage, as elevated blood sugar is one of the primary causes of nerve pain (diabetes). Additionally, exercise boosts the flow of blood throughout the body, which can reduce nerve pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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9. Rest and Sleep<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When we sleep, the body starts the healing process to eliminate toxins <\/a>and stress built up during the day. People who were suffering from the effects of a pinched nerve may find that a good night’s sleep will release the nerve and return the affected area to normal health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When we sleep, the body relaxes, and all of the tension and the muscular system dissipates. People who are dealing with conditions like sciatica, which involves pinching of the sciatic nerve that passes through the piriformis muscle, may find that they wake up in the morning feeling fine. However, as they go about their day, they quickly experience the onset of pain symptoms associated with sciatica.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When rising from bed in the morning, if you notice that your pain has significantly diminished, then it’s a great time to perform a few stretches. Stretching helps to ensure that the muscular system is supple and resistant to the accumulation of stress and tension that may occur during the day.
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10. Adjust Your Posture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People with poor posture may find that they experience symptoms of pinched nerves and muscle spasms. Correct posture <\/a>calls for the alignment of the lower, mid, and upper back, as well as an erect cervical spine. People who suffer from conditions like hunched shoulders or “geekneck,” are at a far higher risk of developing a pinched nerve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Assess your posture by standing with your back towards a wall, lift your arms until they are parallel to the ground, and place your wrists and elbows at the wall behind you. Push the head towards the wall, and notice if you feel any strain on the shoulders or hollowing in the lower back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you do find that you are suffering from conditions such as anterior pelvic tilt, geekneck, or hunched shoulders, then visit the physiotherapist for an assessment. The physiotherapist will also give you guidelines and stretches to complete to readjust your posture and prevent pinched nerves from occurring in the future.
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11. Splinting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People who are dealing with a pinched nerve may find that they benefit from the use of a splint, especially if the affected area is a limb. Splinting <\/a>serves two purposes, the first being to protect the affected area from further damage, and the second being to help with recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most doctors and physiotherapists will recommend splinting and the area, and it’s one of the most common forms of therapy designed to restore normal nerve function. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common areas for splinting include the hands, the wrists, and the feet, with most patients having to wear the splint at night while they sleep. Wearing this recovery tool in bed helps to prevent any damage from unconscious movements.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Splinting the affected area also helps to take the pressure off of the nerve, reducing inflammation and irritation of the affected area. Splints are readily available from your local pharmacy or a health retailer online; they are simple to apply a cost-effective means of relieving nerve pain.
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12. Use an Ergonomic Workstation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remaining in a seated position for prolonged periods, is one of the most common causes of nerve <\/a>pain, especially in the hips and lower back. People who spend hours every day in a seated position at work are placing themselves at risk of nerve pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The lower back and hips are not designed to maintain a seated position. As a result, sitting may cause problems with the sciatic nerve passing through the hip and piriformis muscle producing symptoms of pain down the back of the legs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you do have to sit for prolonged periods, then we recommend that you redesign your workstation. The use of an ergonomic keyboard and mouse will help to reduce symptoms of pressure in the wrists and hands that may result in nerve conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Using a standing desk will also help to relieve pain and tension in the hips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

People who develop neck pain from staring down at the laptop will also benefit from a standing desk. The standing position brings the eyes up, preventing a condition known as “geekneck,” where the neck and head tilt forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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13. Ice and Heat Therapy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the most effective means of resolving neck pain is to use both ice and heat therapy. When the person first notices are the signs of a pinched nerve or nerve damage, they should use an ice pack to bring down inflammation <\/a>in the affected area. Icing the joints of the feet, hips, wrists, and elbows, helps to limit the extent of the nerve damage, while soothing symptoms of pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After icing, let the joint warm-up naturally for 20-30 minutes. After the surface of the skin reaches average room temperature, apply a heat pack to the affected area. The heat helps to expand the joints and get the blood flowing, releasing any trapped nerves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can alternate icing and heat therapy using the strategy mentioned above. We recommend that you try this at least three to four times a day, especially when rising in the morning and before going to bed at night. In most cases, the patient should experience relief straight after the therapy. Patients with cases of minor nerve pain may experience a release of the nerve overnight after resting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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14. Massage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another useful tool for releasing trapped nerves or minimizing nerve damage is massage<\/a>. If you have a nerve problem in your back, then you may require a visit to the physiotherapist office or masseuse to have them work on the problem for you. However, if you have nerve pain in any of the limb’s shoulders or neck, then it’s possible to massage these areas by yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When starting your massage therapy, it’s essential to moisturize the affected area using oil or moisturizing lotion. This strategy helps to prevent irritation of the skin. In some cases, patients may not be able to apply deep massage therapy to by themselves, as it may be too painful. In this case, the patient should also visit a registered and licensed physiotherapist, so that they can apply the pressure needed to release the nerve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you hesitate to receive a deep tissue massage, then you may get some relief from the use of painkillers before you start the session. During a massage, the therapist works out the tent areas of the body responsible for causing the nerve pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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15. Stretching and Yoga<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Patients who are dealing with the onset of nerve pain, due to either a pinched nerve or damage, may experience some relief from light stretching. However, it’s vital that the patient does not push it too far as this may worsen the condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some yoga <\/a>positions may benefit the affected individual, helping them to release a trapped nerve, as well as reduce stress in the concerned muscle groups causing the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yoga is an ancient form of stretching involving breathing, that brings the body and mind back into balance. Postures such as downward-facing dog may help to reduce pressure and pain in the hips, that are causing symptoms of sciatica.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are dealing with extreme nerve pain, then you should avoid symptoms of stretching, and visit your physiotherapist for instructions on how to stretch correctly. Stretching in the morning and before bed can significantly reduce your symptoms, and help you deal with the effects of the pain during the day, as well as get a good night’s sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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16. Lifestyle Changes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Patients who are dealing with the effects of nerve pain may have to consider lifestyle changes, to avoid further problems with nerves in the future. People who choose to participate and self-destructive habits, such as drinking alcohol and smoking<\/a>, may find it there more predisposed to developing nerve pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both smoking and drinking alcohol have a toxic effect on the body, producing symptoms of inflammation. This inflammation can increase symptoms of pain in the affected area. Stopping drinking and smoking may help you recover from the condition; however, many people have problems with stopping his habits. Visit your doctor for advice on cessation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sedentary individuals who do not get any exercise during the day, experience imbalances and weakness in the ligaments and muscular system. As a result, they are more likely to experience nerve pain or nerve damage. Exercising for five to 15-minutes a day can go a long way to preventing nerve pain in the future. If you struggle with neck pain, then you may also benefit from the use of the memory foam pillow, designed explicitly to your sleeping position.
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