Identifying and Treating a Pinched Nerve in the Neck

7. Further Treatments

Some people have chronic or severe pinched nerves and need more extensive treatment. If the pain isn't responding to ibuprofen or acetaminophen, a doctor may precribe a steroid medication to relax the muscles and help with pain. A physical therapist can provide stretches and exercises to strengthen the neck, and a brace can keep it in the best position for healing.

In particularly severe cases that do not respond to traditional treatments, surgery can relieve the pressure on the nerves.