Home Remedies for a Pinched Nerve in the Shoulder

Pinched nerves in the shoulder can cause discomfort and, for some, extreme pain. According to the American Chiropractic Association, a pinched nerve is a type of damage or injury done to the nerves, most commonly resulting from constriction or compression of some sort. The severity of a pinched nerve in the shoulder can range from minor to serious, so if symptoms persist, it is important to see a doctor. There are treatments that can include physical therapy, medication and even surgery. If you feel the pinched nerve in your shoulder is minor, there are some simple home remedies that can ease the discomfort 2.

Honey and Cinnamon

Relieving shoulder pain with common household items like cinnamon and honey can be helpful. Combined together, they contain ingredients that can lessen the pain. You can make a paste by taking 1 cup of honey and adding cinnamon until the honey thickens into a paste. After the paste is completed, apply it to the shoulder for 10 minutes. This is a great way to help the pain, but the cinnamon can burn the skin or leave the area red so be sure to sample it on a small piece of your skin first.

Essential oils

Rubbing or massaging one, or even a combination, of these healing oils onto your shoulder can help reduce the pain that the pinched nerve is causing. Warm olive oil with a few drops of any of the above mentioned oils can help alleviate the symptoms while providing a warm feeling to the area 2.

Tricks and Tips

One of the many little tricks and tips that can help with the pain of a pinched nerve in the shoulder is to take an old sock and fill it with rice; then put the sock in the microwave for 1 minute and apply to the shoulder. This method acts like wet heat. A hot bath can help shoulder pain caused by a pinched nerve, and adding 10 or 15 drops of an essential oil such as peppermint, sandalwood or lavender can help soothe the pain away. Another suggestion offered by the Chiropractic Association is to use a neck pillow. This can offer relief and take the pressure off the area.