Pain in the hand, neck, or other areas of the body may indicate a pinched nerve. But a similar discomfort can be felt with a muscle pull. So, how do you figure out what is what? Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Chandra Sekhar Dannana, Senior Consultant-Orthopaedics, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, lists some of the key differences between the two.

What Is A Muscle Pull?

A muscle pull, also known as a muscle strain, occurs when muscles are stretched or torn due to overexertion or sudden, forceful movements.

Symptoms usually include localised pain, swelling, and potential muscle spasms.

According to Dr Dannana, common causes of a muscle pull include overuse, improper lifting, or sudden twisting movements.

As opposed to a muscle pull, a pinched nerve occurs when a lot of pressure is applied to a nerve surrounding a tissue, including areas such as bones, muscles, or tendons.

Dr Dananna says that the pressure can disrupt the nerve's normal function, leading to a sharp, burning pain along with tingling or pins-and-needles sensations.

According to StatPearls Publishing, cervical radiculopathy, or neck pain caused by a pinched nerve, is a prevalent issue. In general, research suggests neck pain accounts for up to 40% of work absenteeism.

How To Differentiate Between The Two?

The one similarity between a pinched nerve and a muscle pull is pain. However, the way they cause pain and the sensations felt may differ.

Muscle pull: The pain is usually localised to the injured muscle and is often aggravated by movement. There is swelling involved when pulled muscles swell, and the limbs feel stiff and weak right after an injury.

Pinched nerve: The symptoms, including pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness, are often felt in a specific area, and they may radiate or travel along the nerve pathway. Common areas include the neck (resulting in cervical radiculopathy), lower back (lumbar radiculopathy or sciatica), and wrists (carpal tunnel syndrome).

Treatment Options For Muscle Pull And Pinched Nerve

Rest is key when it comes to managing and treating pain associated with both a muscle pull and a pinched nerve. However, other treatment options for both conditions involve:

For muscle pull:

• Apply ice packs to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.
• Use compression bandages to limit swelling.
• Keep the injured area elevated to minimise swelling.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.

For pinched nerve:

• Specific exercises can help relieve pressure on the nerve.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) or oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for pain and inflammation.
• Depending on the location of the pinched nerve, using splints or braces may help alleviate pressure.
• In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation around the nerve.

Conclusion

Recognising the difference between a pulled muscle and a pinched nerve is essential for effective treatment and rehabilitation. Both conditions can lead to severe pain and reduced functionality, impacting daily activities. Seeking appropriate medical guidance helps ensure accurate diagnosis and effective interventions, promoting a safe and timely return to normal activities.

Reference Link

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/difference-between-muscle-pull-and-pinched-nerve-1708505740