Resting the Shoulder
The first step in treating compression of a shoulder nerve is rest. Resting your shoulder can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on the nerve. Avoiding any activities that may aggravate the condition is also important. If you have a job that requires you to use your arm or shoulder extensively, you should consider taking some time off to rest.
Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice therapy can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with nerve compression. You can use a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel to apply cold therapy to your shoulder for about 20 minutes at a time. Heat therapy can also be beneficial, especially for shoulder muscles that have become tense. Heating pads can be used for heat therapy.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective way to treat compression of a shoulder nerve. Your physical therapist can create a customized treatment plan with exercises to help relieve your symptoms. They may also use massage and other techniques to help improve mobility and range of motion in your shoulder.
Pain Medication
Pain medication can be used to help relieve pain associated with nerve compression. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. If over-the-counter medications don’t work, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication.
Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections are another treatment option for compression of a shoulder nerve. These injections contain a potent anti-inflammatory medication called cortisone, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with nerve compression. They are typically administered by a doctor in their office and can provide relief for several months.
Surgery
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to treat compression of a shoulder nerve. Surgery is typically reserved for cases where other treatment options have failed and your symptoms continue to worsen. Your surgeon will remove the damaged tissue or bone that is causing the compression, which can relieve your symptoms.
Conclusion
Compression of a shoulder nerve can be a painful and debilitating condition. However, there are many treatment options available that can help to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Resting your shoulder, using ice and heat therapy, physical therapy, and pain medication can be effective treatments for mild cases of compression. For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms of compression of a shoulder nerve, consult your doctor or a pain specialist to find the best treatment plan for you.