The symptoms
Inflammation of the nerves in the back can manifest itself through various symptoms. The damage to the nerve often causes a tingling sensation in certain parts of the back. Those affected describe the whole thing like ants walking on the skin.
The sensation can also be impaired. Temperatures are no longer perceived as hot or cold as before. A feeling of numbness can also occur in certain areas.
Another central symptom is pain, especially in the area of the muscles that are supplied by the inflamed nerves. In the area of the back this often radiates into different areas along the spine. If the nerve inflammation is located in the upper part of the back, dizziness can also occur.
The diagnosis
The medical history, i.e. the doctor-patient consultation, plays an important role in the diagnosis of nerve inflammation in the back. Here, a distinction can be made between inflammation or tension by asking about the cause. By taking a blood sample, values that indicate an inflammation – so-called inflammation parameters, such as CRP – can be checked. In addition, an electromyogram (EMG) can be used to determine whether the muscles are involved in the inflammation.
The treatment
The therapy of nerve inflammation in the back depends on the cause of the inflammation. If, for example, there is an infection, it must be treated with antiviral or antibiotics, depending on the pathogen. In general, pain therapy and exercise therapy, regardless of the cause, are in the foreground.
The pain can be relieved by locally injected drugs, such as muscle relaxants – drugs that relax the muscles. Of course, other common painkillers such as Ibuprofen® or Novalgin® can also be taken. Physiotherapy, possibly in combination with ergotherapy, is also recommended to prevent complications.
Acupuncture, biofeedback or treatment with stimulation current can also be considered as therapy options. There are many medications that can help with nerve inflammation in the back. In particular, anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen® or, in more severe cases, cortisone can be used.
These not only counteract the inflammation of the nerve, but also relieve the pain associated with it.If an infection is present, antibiotics or antiviral drugs should be taken, depending on the pathogen. In addition to drug treatment options, home remedies can also relieve nerve inflammation in the back and the pain associated with it. A balanced diet, relaxation of the muscles and heat or cold therapy are of primary importance.
A balanced diet is important because the nerve function can be improved by the minerals ingested (especially fresh fruit and vegetables). Relaxation of the nerves and muscles can be achieved, for example, with ginger. This can be supplied locally or in rubbed form in a cotton cloth soaked with water, or by drinking tea regularly.
The improvement of pain can also be supported by regular drinking of nettle tea. Cayenne pepper also counteracts the inflammation and relieves the pain. Temperature can play a role in the treatment of nerve inflammation in the back.
By changing the surrounding temperature, the nerves can be stimulated and thus better transmit signals. Whether heat or cold helps better depends on the person affected and the extent of the inflammation. In general, it can be said that heat that is applied locally in the form of a heat pad, for example, has a relaxing effect.
This relaxation directly affects the nerves, but also the muscles. On the contrary, cold leads to a reduced transmission of nerve signals. This also reduces the signals that transmit pain.
Therefore, one should always decide individually whether heat or cold should be applied. In order to avoid overheating or hypothermia, one should not exceed a certain time frame. This topic might also be of interest to you: Inflammation of nerves in the thighThere are various homeopathic remedies that can help against inflammation of nerves in the back and the pain associated with it.
Examples are Magensium carbonicum or Zincum metallicum. These help to balance the electrolyte balance, which is very important for the nerves and muscles. Other homeopathic helpful remedies are Naja tripudians or Verbascum. Belladonna or St. John’s wort can also be used. More information about homeopathy can be found here.
