We have discussed many causes of shoulder pain at night. However, one issue that deserves closer attention is how a pinched shoulder nerve can disrupt your sleep and create ongoing discomfort.
What Can Cause A Pinched Nerve?
The spinal column has three main regions. The cervical spine makes up the first seven vertebrae in your neck. When a pinched shoulder nerve occurs, it usually involves this area of the spine.
A pinched nerve forms when nearby structures press on the nerve. Bone changes, disk bulges, or swollen soft tissue can place pressure on the nerve root. As a result, you may feel pain that starts in the neck and travels down the arm. Tingling in the fingers or hands is also common. Because this pain increases tension in the neck and shoulder, it often becomes difficult to sleep.
This condition is known as cervical radiculopathy.
Pincher Shoulder Nerve Diagnosis
A doctor should diagnose a pinched shoulder nerve when symptoms begin. Early diagnosis helps identify the exact cause of the pain. Doctors often use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) because it shows soft tissue clearly. Therefore, MRI scans offer more detail than CT scans or X-rays.
Over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce pain in mild cases. In addition, doctors may recommend prescribed treatments, including injected corticosteroids, when the discomfort is more severe.
When needed, surgeons may perform artificial disk replacement. During this procedure, the surgeon accesses the spine through the front of the neck and replaces the damaged disk with an artificial one. Although this treatment is more invasive, it can provide long-term relief.
Shoulder Pain Management
Pain management continues even after surgery or non-surgical treatments. For example, using an ice pack during the first 48 hours after pain begins can reduce inflammation.
Many people also find massage helpful. Massage boosts circulation around inflamed tissue and eases muscle tension caused by a pinched nerve. Because muscle tension often disrupts sleep, this type of treatment may help you rest more comfortably.
Professional Support at Easy Cozy Wellness
The massage therapists at Easy Cozy Wellness in Nanaimo, BC, have experience treating pain from pinched shoulder nerves. They focus on improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and easing tension so you can move and sleep with less discomfort.
Call Easy Cozy Wellness today to book your appointment.
References
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323124#diagnosis
https://www.healthline.com/health/pinched-nerve-shoulder-pain
https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/what-cervical-radiculopathy