Acute Nerve Root Compression - Lower Back - Physio.co.uk

20 May.,2024

 

Acute Nerve Root Compression - Lower Back - Physio.co.uk

What is acute nerve root compression?



Acute nerve root compression is when a nerve is compressed by a structure within the back as it leaves the spinal column. Physiotherapy is a very effective treatment for acute nerve root compression.


Above: Rolling Soft Tissue Massage applied to the lower back by experienced therapist

Above: Rolling Soft Tissue Massage applied to the lower back by experienced therapist

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How does acute nerve root compression happen?



Acute nerve root compression is most commonly caused by an intervertebral disc prolapse. Intervertebral discs are shock absorbing pads that are found between each of the bones that make up the spine. When a disc is injured, its contents may prolapse or bulge outwards and put pressure on a nerve as it leaves the spinal column. An intervertebral disc prolapse may occur following a relatively simple movement such as bending forward or twisting. It can also be caused by more complex and forceful movements of the spine.


What are the symptoms of acute nerve root compression?



Acute nerve root compression causes a sudden onset of pain in the leg (known as


Above: Rolling Soft Tissue Massage applied to the lower back by experienced therapist

Above: Rolling Soft Tissue Massage applied to the lower back by experienced therapist




What should I do if I have acute nerve root compression?



If you have or suspect you have an acute nerve root compression, you should consult a physiotherapist immediately.

If you have pain in both of your legs, loss of muscle power in both of your legs, numbness in the saddle region, have difficulty passing water or passing stools you should go to your nearest accident emergency department immediately.


Physiotherapy treatment for acute nerve root compression.



The assistance of a physiotherapist is important in the treatment of acute nerve root compression. Initially, your physiotherapist can diagnose your problem and determine its severity. In severe cases, referral for imaging techniques such as an X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be required. Following the assessment your physiotherapist will devise a treatment plan specifically for you. Physiotherapy treatment may include:


Above: Mobilisations of the vertebrea in the lower back by experienced therapist

Above: Mobilisations of the vertebrea in the lower back by experienced therapist




What shouldn’t I do if I have acute nerve root compression?



If you have or suspect you have an acute nerve root compression, you should not ignore the problem and continue to participate in sport or activities that aggravate your pain. Continuing could lead to your problem worsening and may prolong your recovery.


Could there be any long-term effects from acute nerve root compression?



Acute nerve root compression does not usually cause long-term effects, if it is appropriately diagnosed and treated. A full recovery is usually within a couple of months. However, dependent on the size of the disc bulge and the extent of nerve compression, this period may be prolonged. If the disc bulge is extremely large and causing severe symptoms, it may be necessary to undergo surgery to release the pressure on the nerve. This will increase your recovery time.


Above: Soft tissue massage of the lower back muscles and connective tissue by specialist therapist

Above: Soft tissue massage of the lower back muscles and connective tissue by specialist therapist




To arrange a physiotherapy assessment with a spinal specialist call Physio.co.uk on 0330 088 7800 or


Acute nerve root compression is when aisby a structure within the back as itthe. Physiotherapy is a very effective treatment for acute nerve root compression.Acute nerve root compression is most commonly caused by an. Intervertebral discs are shock absorbing pads that are found between each of the bones that make up the spine. When a disc is injured, its contents may prolapse or bulge outwards and put pressure on a nerve as it leaves the spinal column. An intervertebral disc prolapse may occur following a relatively simple movement such as bending forward or twisting. It can also be caused by more complex and forceful movements of the spine.Acute nerve root compression causes aonset of pain in the leg (known as sciatica ). This pain is commonly described as a shooting, burning or intense aching pain that is difficult to locate. You may also be unable to stand up straight. Pain is often worse when sitting, bending, lifting, coughing or sneezing. Weakness, numbness, and/or pins and needles can also be caused in the hip, knee, calf, ankle and/or foot. Other symptoms may include:If you have or suspect you have an acute nerve root compression, you should consult aimmediately.The assistance of ais important in the treatment of acute nerve root compression. Initially, your physiotherapist can diagnose your problem and determine its severity. In severe cases, referral for imaging techniques such as an X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be required. Following the assessment your physiotherapist will devise a treatment plan specifically for you. Physiotherapy treatment may include:If you have or suspect you have an acute nerve root compression, you should not ignore the problem and continue to participate in sport or activities that aggravate your pain. Continuing could lead to your problem worsening and may prolong your recovery.Acute nerve root compression does not usually cause long-term effects, if it is appropriately diagnosed and treated. A full recovery is usually within a couple of months. However, dependent on the size of the disc bulge and the extent of nerve compression, this period may be prolonged. If the disc bulge is extremely large and causing severe symptoms, it may be necessary to undergo surgery to release the pressure on the nerve. This will increase your recovery time.To arrange a physiotherapy assessment with a spinal specialist call Physio.co.uk onor book online

How Long Does It Take for Nerves to Heal After Back ...

How Long Does It Take for Nerves to Heal After Back Surgery?

Mar 4, 2024

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Back surgery is commonly used to treat pinched or damaged spinal nerves from conditions like spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and herniated disc. However, the process of nerve recovery after back surgery can be lengthy and uncomfortable. Nerve tissue takes a notoriously long time to heal.

In this article, we’ll explore the healing process for nerves after back surgery and offer strategies to improve your recovery. 

Does Nerve Pain Ever Go Away After Back Surgery?

Nerve pain goes away after back surgery in most cases. However, it can take a year or even longer after the surgery for the nerves to completely heal. Nerves heal slowly when compared to other types of tissue.  

If nerve pain doesn’t go away after back surgery, it may be referred to as failed back surgery syndrome. With this condition, the spinal procedure fails to resolve the patient’s symptoms, which may include nerve pain. While the reason for failed back surgery syndrome is often unknown, possible causes include:

  • A surgical error, such as nerve damage during surgery
  • An incorrect diagnosis, with which the spinal procedure may not address the root of the patient’s pain
  • Scar tissue formation, which can occur around a nerve root and trigger lasting nerve pain
  • Adjacent segment disease, or ASD, which is a possible complication of spinal fusion and occurs when the spinal segments surrounding the fused segment degenerate at an accelerated rate
  • Hardware failure, which occurs when the spinal hardware (i.e. screws) breaks, potentially leading to nerve pain

How Do You Know If a Nerve Is Healing After Back Surgery?

Your nerve is likely healing after back surgery if you experience gradual relief from radiating pain, no pain with movements that used to cause flare-ups, and restored sensation in the treatment area. Other signs of nerve healing include:

  • Reduced numbness and tingling
  • Improved mobility and range of motion in the spine
  • Greater muscle strength in the affected area

Confusingly, some patients experience a tingling sensation while a nerve is healing. This occurs because the nerves fire sporadically as they regenerate, and the nervous system tends to kick into overdrive during the recovery process. This tingling, pins-and-needles sensation is temporary and simply indicates that the nerves are regaining their normal function. 

Your physician or surgeon can help you differentiate between tingling that indicates nerve damage and tingling that indicates nerve healing. 

Nerve Healing Signs

Nerve healing signs may include:

  • Reduced pain and inflammation; improved mobility and muscle strength; and reduced neurological symptoms, as discussed above
  • Greater sensation in the area supplied by the nerve
    • Some people experience hypersensitivity to touch in the affected area as the nerve heals. 
  • Itching 
  • Tingling
  • “Electric” sensation

Some individuals don’t experience notable signs of nerve healing. So, if you don’t have the symptoms above, your nerve may still be healing properly – experiences vary from patient to patient. 

Why Does Nerve Healing Cause Itchiness?

Though it may sound strange, itching is a normal sign of nerve healing. This occurs because as nerves heal, they’re stimulated by activity at the site of the injury. The brain construes this stimulation as itchiness and gives you the urge to scratch. 

Tingling and Nerve Regeneration

Though tingling in the extremities is a symptom of a pinched spinal nerve, tingling is also a known sign of nerve regeneration. Specifically, tingling can suggest that young axons are present in the affected area and are actively developing. 

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Axons are thin fibers that link nerve cells (also known as neurons) together, allowing them to communicate through electrical impulses. Axonal regeneration is the second key phase in nerve regeneration, preceded only by Wallerian degeneration, which involves removing the end of the injured neuron. 

Electric Shock Sensation Due to Nerve Repair

As a nerve heals, some individuals experience an electric shock-like sensation. This can be uncomfortable but indicates that the nerve is effectively recovering. 

It can be hard to differentiate this sensation from the burning, shooting pain of nerve damage. However, when a nerve is healing, the “electric” feeling will likely move as the nerve grows, then subside. In cases of nerve damage, the burning sensation tends to worsen over time.  

If you can’t tell whether an electric sensation is a sign of nerve healing or nerve damage, contact your physician. 

What Helps Nerves Heal Faster?

Cardiovascular exercise, physical therapy exercises, getting plenty of sleep, and eating a nutrient-dense diet can all help nerves heal faster. These natural therapies support nerve regeneration and promote the body’s healing process. 

Cardio for Nerve Healing

Cardiovascular exercise can benefit nerve recovery by boosting the release of growth factors and neurotrophins in the spinal cord. While you shouldn’t push through pain during exercise or stray from your surgeon’s aftercare instructions, gradually adding low-impact cardio to your routine can encourage healing after back surgery.  

Examples of low-impact cardio include:

  • Brisk walking
  • Water aerobics
  • Using a stationary bike or elliptical machine
  • Yoga 
  • Resistance exercises

PT for Nerve Healing

Your physical therapist can provide stretches and strengthening exercises that promote nerve healing. In strengthening the muscles that support the spine, PT exercises can limit impact on the spinal structures with day-to-day motions, helping to prevent further nerve damage. Additionally, PT exercises can promote blood circulation to the spine, ensuring that the irritated nerves have the oxygen and nutrients required to heal. 

Sleep for Nerve Healing

If you miss out on high-quality sleep at night, your pain threshold may suffer. As a result, nerve pain after back surgery may feel worse. So, try to prioritize sleep after the procedure by:

  • Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees or on your back with a pillow under your knees, which helps reduce pressure on the spine after back surgery
  • Wearing satin pajamas to easily change positions during the night
  • Keep your bedroom at a consistent temperature (ideally between 60 and 68℉)
  • Invest in a supportive mattress, ideally firm to medium-firm
  • Avoid naps during the day, which can make it difficult to sleep at night
  • Consider wearing an eye mask or earplugs to limit disturbances while you sleep

Nutrition for Nerve Healing

A variety of dietary nutrients are crucial for nerve regeneration, including B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Foods that are rich in these nutrients and can support nerve healing include:

  • Antioxidant-rich fruits like cherries, cherries, peaches, and grapes help fight inflammation after back surgery by preventing free radical damage. 
  • Leafy and green vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, and asparagus are rich in B vitamins, which support nerve regeneration. Many of these veggies also contain alpha-lipoic acid, which is known to improve nerve function.
  • Potassium-rich foods, including avocados, bananas, beets, and squash, promote healthy nerve transmission.    
  • Sweet potato is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as natural anti-inflammatory compounds that can help with nerve recovery. 

What Is the Fastest Way to Recover From Back Surgery?

The fastest way to recover from back surgery is to closely follow all of your surgeon’s instructions, safely engage in low-impact exercise, and adhere to a healthy lifestyle. This should involve:

  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
  • Eating a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of fiber, low-fat protein, and antioxidants
  • Avoiding excessive bed rest 
  • Sleeping for at least seven to nine hours each night
  • Avoiding activities that could strain the spine, such as lifting objects and twisting the spine

Low-impact exercise is considered a key component to a fast recovery from back surgery. Walking will be the recommended exercise in the first few months after the procedure, so aim to walk regularly. This will promote circulation to the spine, prevent muscle atrophy, and increase your spinal mobility. 

Regain your mobility with Premia Spine!

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Bonnie explains why TOPS surgery was the right decision for her

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Scott speaks about going to surgery

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The TOPS System significantly reduces patients’ back surgery recovery time when compared to spinal fusion. By creating a controlled range of motion within the spine, it’s an ideal spinal fusion alternative for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis or spondylolisthesis. 

Contact a spinal surgeon in your area to learn more about nerve recovery after back surgery. 

Are you interested in learning more about biportal nerve root retractor? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!