Those who are undergoing pinched nerve treatment may find relief through exercises. A lumbar radiculopathy diagnosis means that the spinal root nerve is irritated or compressed. Symptoms can vary depending on which nerve root is compressed, but sciatica is the most common outcome. This results in pain that travels from the lower back to the legs, muscle weakness or numbness, and reflex loss. This could come about because of a herniated disc, degenerative disease, or spinal stenosis. Along with other treatments, a physical therapist or doctor will recommend some exercises to help the spine to stabilize, alleviate pressure, and reduce the discomfort and pain. Here are a few exercises that my be recommended for pinched nerve treatment. Be sure to check in with your doctor to make sure these stretches are safe for you.  

After a Radiculopathy Diagnosis, Talk to Your Doctor About Excercises That Can Help

Curl Ups: This flexion exercise can help to make the passageway larger for the nerve root and therefore reduce irritation. It is done by lying on your back with knees bent. Feet need to be planted on the ground and arms folded across the chest. Lift your head and shoulders off the ground for two to four seconds and then lower to the starting position.  

Upper Back Extension: This extension exercise can help to reduce the pressure on the nerve root. It is done by lying on your stomach and interlocking your fingers, clasping your hands behind your lower back. Lift the chest and head off the ground and hold for five seconds. Gradually increase to 20 seconds.  Repeat eight to 10 times.

Supine Piriformis Stretch: This stretch can help to ease pressure on the compressed nerve root. It is done by lying on your back with legs extended. Bend the leg that is in pain and put both hands behind that thigh. Pull the knee toward your chest and hold for 30 seconds.  Repeat 10 times.

Total Back Stretch: This stretch aims to loosen up the tight muscles and reduce the pressure on the nerve root. It is done by lying down with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Put your hands on the backs of your thighs and bring your knees toward your chest while also bringing your upper body forward. Repeat 10 times.