Many people often call a pinched nerve and pulled muscle interchangeably as if they are similar pains. For this reason, when they experience either one of the pains, they use common remedies such as painkillers to try to kill the pain. Sadly the pains recur in the future without knowing which one exactly is being caused. It, therefore, helps to know what type of pain you are suffering from so that you can take remedial and preventive measures. The bottom line is that a pulled muscle and a pinched nerve are not the same.
What are differences between a pinched nerve and a pulled muscle?
In most cases, both pinched nerve and pulled muscle occur as a result of high intensity activity or after strenuous exercises. This is probably the main reason why some people are confusing the terms. However, these are different ailments.
A pulled muscle often swells immediately, and it occurs predominantly on the neck, back, shoulders, and chest muscles. When muscles are overextended, that’s when this type of pain results. On the other hand, a pinched muscle occurs due to pressured tissues in a localized area. It also occurs when the nerves are squeezed and then causing a pain along the nerve. A tingling sensation may result from a pinched nerve. Unlike a pulled muscle, a pinched nerve is not always visible on the screen.
To work while standing or sitting on a wrong position is a trigger of a pulled muscle. A pulled muscle often occurs in a group of muscles that are located on the shoulders, chest, and back. On the other hand, a pinched nerve can be triggered by sitting for a long time on a chair or by sleeping for a long time on a bed while the body parts such as the arm are wrongly positioned. Just by crossing legs, you can receive a pinched nerve. In fact, any pressured body part for a long period can result in a pinched nerve.
It is relatively easy for the body to suffer from a pinched nerve than a pulled muscle. A pulled muscle cannot occur if there is no strenuous exercise. Those who like to run, to sprint or jog knows how a pulled muscle feels like. It is that pain that, when it strikes them, they become discouraged to continue. On the other hand, weird positions or by sitting for a long time without altering positions can cause a pinched nerve. It is quite easy to suffer from a pinched nerve on any part of the body.
How to treat a pinched nerve and a pulled muscle?
Despite their differences, they can be treated by applying an ice to the affected area to reduce swelling. The affected area can also be compressed and stretched gently to soothe the pain. You have to get some rest if the pain persists or intensifies. It is recommended to consult a doctor if any of the pains persist for a long time.
