The inflammation of the nerves on the back

definition

An inflammation of the nerves on the back is damage to a nerve caused by an inflammatory process. This inflammation can be caused by a wide variety of causes. Only one nerve can be affected, which is known as mononeuritis, or there is inflammation of several nerves on the back, i.e. polyneuritis.

If a nerve root, i.e. a union of several nerve fibers at the entry or exit of the spinal cord, is affected by the inflammation, it is called radiculitis.

The reasons

Nerve inflammation in the back can have many different causes. An infection is a possible cause. Viruses such as the varicella zoster virus, the Epstein-Barr virus or the herpes simplex virus type 2 are common pathogens.
But bacteria, such as mycoplasma, can also cause nerve inflammation on the back in rare cases.

Another cause is an allergic reaction, whereby the nervous tissue reacts to a certain substance by activating the immune system, which leads to inflammation. But mechanical damage, such as occurs in an accident, can also lead to nerve inflammation.

In some cases, the inflammation of the nerve is also caused by toxicity, i.e. by a substance that is toxic to the nerves. An inflammatory change in the nerves on the back can also be present in the context of another disease, such as multiple sclerosis. If the cause of the nerve inflammation is unknown, this is known as the idiopathic form.

Find out more about the topic here:

  • Varicella zoster virus
  • Epstein-Barr Virus

Drafts as a possible cause

Nerve inflammation on the back can be favored by cold temperatures, among other things.

If the back is exposed to cold drafts for a long time or repeatedly, this can irritate and damage the superficial nerves in particular. Initially, the muscles become tense. Accordingly, care should be taken not to expose the back to drafts for too long. This can also damage the kidneys.

The symptoms

Nerve inflammation in the back can manifest itself through various symptoms.

The damage to the nerves often leads to a tingling sensation in certain parts of the back.Those affected describe the whole thing like an ant run on the skin. The sensation can also be impaired. Temperatures are no longer perceived as hot or as cold as they used to be. A feeling of numbness can also occur in certain areas.

Another central symptom is pain, especially in the muscles that are supplied by the inflamed nerves. In the area of ​​the back, this often radiates into different areas along the spine. If the nerve inflammation is in the upper part of the back, dizziness may occur.

Find out all about the topic here: Symptoms of an inflammation of the nerves.

The diagnosis

When diagnosing nerve inflammation in the back, the anamnesis, i.e. the doctor-patient conversation, plays an important role. A distinction can be made between inflammation and tension by asking about the cause.

By taking a blood sample, values ​​that speak for inflammation - so-called inflammation parameters, such as CRP - can be checked. The electromyogram (EMG) can also be used to determine whether the muscles are involved in the inflammation.

Find out more about the topic here: Electromyogram.

The treatment

The therapy for nerve inflammation in the back depends on the cause of the inflammation. For example, if there is an infection, it must be treated with antiviral or antibiotics, depending on the pathogen.

In general, pain therapy and exercise therapy, regardless of the cause, are in the foreground. The pain can be relieved by locally injected drugs, such as muscle relaxants - drugs that relax the muscles. Of course, other common pain relievers such as Ibuprofen® or Novalgin® can also be taken.

Physiotherapy, possibly in combination with occupational therapy, is also recommended to prevent complications. Acupuncture, biofeedback or treatment with electrical stimulation can also be considered as therapy options.

Find out all about the topic here: Physical therapy.

These drugs can help

There are many medications that can help with back nerve inflammation. Above all, anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen® or, in more severe cases, cortisone can be used.
These not only counteract the inflammation of the nerve, but also relieve the associated pain at the same time.

If there is an infection, antibiotics or antiviral medication should be taken depending on the pathogen.

Find out more about the topic here: anti-inflammatory drugs.

These home remedies can help

In addition to drug treatment options, home remedies can also relieve nerve inflammation in the back and the associated pain. The focus is on a balanced diet, relaxation of the muscles and heat or cold therapy.

A balanced diet is important because the minerals ingested (especially fresh fruit and vegetables) can improve nerve function. The relaxation of the nerves and muscles can be achieved, for example, with ginger. This can be supplied locally or in grated form in a cotton cloth soaked in water, or by drinking tea regularly.
The improvement in pain can also be helped by drinking nettle tea regularly. Cayenne pepper also counteracts inflammation and relieves pain.

Warmth or cold - which is better?

Temperature can play a role in treating back nerve inflammation. A change in the surrounding temperature can stimulate the nerves and thus better transmit signals. Whether warm or cold works better depends on the person affected and the extent of the inflammation. In general, it can be said that heat that is applied locally in the form of a heat cushion, for example, has a relaxing effect. This relaxation affects the nerves directly, but also the muscles.

On the contrary, cold leads to a reduced transmission of nerve signals. This also reduces the signals that transmit the pain. Therefore, one should always decide individually whether heat or cold should be used.
In order to avoid overheating or hypothermia, you should not exceed a certain time frame.

You may also be interested in this topic: Inflammation of the nerves in the thigh

Homeopathy

There are various homeopathic remedies that can help against nerve inflammation in the back and the pain associated with it. Examples are Magensium carbonicum or Zincum metallicum. These help to balance the electrolyte balance, which is very important for the nerves and muscles.

Other helpful homeopathic remedies are Naja tripudians or Verbascum. Belladonna or St. John's wort can also be used.

More information on the topic homeopathy you'll find here.

Prognosis

The prognosis for an inflammation of the back nerves is often relatively good. Good and regularly performed physiotherapy is crucial for this. The exercises should be learned to counteract the pain. If these exercises are not done consistently, the inflammation of the nerves on the back can spread or intensify and persist for years.

That's how long I've been on sick leave

No general statement can be made about how long you will be on sick leave with a nerve inflammation in your back. Both the cause and the extent of the inflammation play a role as well as the restriction.

In many cases, a week's sick leave is enough to relax and calm the affected nerves and muscles.